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SIDE LIGHT MANUAL NO. 1 



Mental Fascination 



BY 

WILLIAM WALKER ATKINSON 

AUTHOR OF 

"THE SECRET OF MENTAL MAGIC." 
ETC., ETC. 



Being the First Manual in the nature of a Supplement or Sequel to 

tl THB SECRET OF MENTAL MAQIC," 

and designed a* 

SPECIAL INSTRUCTION 

for the students of that worh 



WILLIAM WALKER ATKINSON 

MASONIC TEMPLE 

CHICAGO, ILL. 

1907 



LIBRARY of CONGRESS 
Two Cooles Received 
JUN 10l90f 
^peoyniW ERfry 

CLASS C^ XXC, Nfl. 

' COPY B.f 



Copyright 1907, 
By WILLIAM WALKER ATKINSON. 



All Rights Reserved. 



Notice : — This work is protected by copyright, and simultaneous 
initial publication, in Great Britain, France, Germany, Russia 
and other countries. All foreign rights reserved. 



CONTENTS. 



CHAPTER. PAGE. 

I. What is "Mental Fascination"? 7 

II. Mental Fascination Among Animals... 12 

III. The Story of Mental Fascination 23 

IV. The Reconciliation 39 

V. The Rationale of Fascination 48 

VI. Impressionability 60 

VII. Fable of The Mentative Couple 73 

VIII. Experimental Fascination 87 

IX. Experiments in Induced Sensation.... no 

X. Phenomena of Induced Imagination... 125 

XL Inquiry into Certain Phenomena 136 

XII. The Dangers of Psychism 147 

XIII. Oriental Fascination 156 

XIV. Future Impression 169 

XV. Establishing a Mentative Centre 175 

XVI. Personal Atmosphere 188 

XVII. Direct Personal Influence 205 

XVIII. Eye-Impression 217 

XIX. Fascination of the Eye 22^ 

XX. Use of Mentative Instruments 230 

XXI. Concluding Instruction 243 



PREFACE. 

This book is "Side-Light Manual No. i" accom- 
panying my main work entitled "The Secret of 
Mental Magic/' and being in the nature of a sequel, 
supplement, or "side-light" thereto. The "Side-Light 
Manuals" of which this is the first, are designed to 
bring out the details, and special features of several of 
the "lessons" of which "The Secret of Mental 
Magic" is composed; and to give something in the 
nature of Special Instruction regarding the actual 
operation or workings of the principles referred to in 
the lessons of my main work. The present manual 
bears the above mentioned relation to that lesson in 
my main work entitled "Personal Influence." 

In order to obviate the repetition of the informa- 
tion contained in my main work, I have been obliged 
to constantly refer to the latter. This would be inex- 
cusable were the present book offered as a separate 
and independent work, for it might be justly con- 
sidered as an effort to force my main work upon the 
attention of the reader, for the purpose of increasing 
its sale. But, inasmuch as the present book is adver- 
tised as a "Side-Light/' and its relation to my main 



6 Preface. 

work is plainly stated in every notice — and particu- 
larly as its sale will be almost exclusively among 
those who have already purchased and studied my 
main work — I think I may reasonably ask to be 
absolved from such suspicion. 

I think that I have condensed much valuable infor- 
mation within the pages of this book, and I trust that 
my readers will like the work as well as do I. But, 
be that as it may, I defy anyone to read it without 
gaining a strong, practical realization of the powerful 
part, for good or ill, that Mental Fascination is play- 
ing in this Twentieth Century world of ours. And I 
feel that the majority will agree with me that it is time 
that this potent influence should be studied, under- 
stood, mastered and its "sting" extracted by such an 
universal knowledge of its principles as will serve 
to destroy its improper employment. To those who 
may consider this rather "dangerous knowledge" to be 
spread broadcast, I will say that Ignorance is no pro- 
tection—I believe that in all cases the best way to 
dispel Darkness, and all that goes with it, is to Turn 
on the Light. 

And this, then, is the Spirit in which this book has 
been written. May you so receive it. 

Chicago, 111., U. S. A., May 13, 1907. 



MENTAL FASCINATION 



CHAPTER I. 
WHAT IS "MENTAL FASCINATION?" 

"Fascination" means "the act of Fascinating, or 
state of being Fascinated." The word "Fascinate" 
springs from the Latin word "Fascinare" meaning "to 
enchant ; bewitch, charm by eyes or tongue ; captivate, 
attract," etc. The definition of the English word, 
"Fascinate," is as follows : "To act upon by some pow- 
erful 1 or irresistible influence; to influence by an ir- 
resistible charm; to allure, or excite, irresistibly or 
powerfully; to charm, captivate, or attract, power- 
fully; to influence the imagination, reason or will of 
another, in an uncontrollable manner ; to enchant, cap- 
tivate or allure, powerfully or irresistibly." 

The above definition is condensed from a number 
of the best dictionaries, and gives the cream of the 
idea embodied in the word. 

MY DEFINITION. 

In this manual I shall use the term "Mental Fas- 
cination" is the sense of: The action of a Mental 

7 



8 Mental Fascination 

Force that powerfully influences the imagination, de- 
sire, or will of another. This is my own broad defini- 
tion which includes all the varied phenomena of 
Personal Magnetism, Psychological Influence, Hyp- 
notism, Mesmerism, Charming, etc., etc., all of which 
I hold to be but varying phases of phenomena of one 
Force. These things are all a "bit off the same piece," 
in spite of the claims to the contrary on the part of 
those who did not like the relationship. 

THE NATURE OF THE FORCE. 

What is the nature of the Force which produces 
that which we call Mental Fascination, which latter I 
have defined as "The action of a Mental Force that 
powerfully influences the imagination, desire or will 
of another ?" Mental Fascination is the manifestation 
— what is the nature of the Mental Force that pow- 
erfully influences? 

As you will see in some of the following chapters, 
there have been many theories advanced to account 
for this Force, the theories varying from "magnetic 
fluids" to mere simple suggestions on the part of the 
influencing person. Nearly every writer on the sub- 
ject has had his own pet theory. But although these 
theories varied and differed greatly, the effects pro- 
duced were about the same, which naturally leads us 
to look for some common basic principle operating 
under all the forms, regardless of the many theories 



What is " Mental Fascination "? 9 

advanced by those producing the effects. It is the 
old story here, as elsewhere. 

A man finds that he is able to produce certain phe- 
nomena, by certain methods. He works along prac- 
tical lines for a time, endeavoring to perfect his 
methods and increase the variety and effectiveness of 
the phenomena. When he has advanced along these 
lines, he begins to look around him for a theory to fit 
the facts of the case, and here is where he usually 
makes his mistake. He evolves some fantastic theory, 
which seems to him to account for the effects pro- 
duced, and then he endeavors to fit the facts into the 
theory. If the facts will not so fit in, well, so much 
the worse for the facts — and he either discards the 
non-conforming facts, or else ignores or denies them. 
This has been the course of theorists since the begin- 
ning. After a while, some man of a more scientific 
mind examines the recorded facts, and discovers the 
true underlying principle, and reconciles the differing 
theories of the original theorists by a new synthesis 
which combines the true principles in all the other the- 
ories, discarding the pet hobbies or prejudices of the 
previous authorities. And so it is in the case of 
Mental Fascination, as we shall see. 

THE UNDERLYING THEORY. 

I shall not have much to say about theory in this 
book. I have explained the theory and principle un- 



io Mental Fascination 

derlying Mental Fascination, in my larger book en- 
titled "The Secret of Mental Magic," of which this 
little manual is a "Side Light." In that book I have 
explained that the Underlying Force beneath all forms 
of Mental Magic — and Mental Fascination is one of 
those forms — is the Universal Mentative Energy, of 
which, and in which, each Individual Mind is a Cen- 
ter of Activity. I have also explained that the Menta- 
tive Energy of each Individual Mind is, and may be, 
transmitted from one person to another by means of 
Mentative Currents, or Waves. And that these Men- 
tative Currents and Waves tend to "induce" in the 
minds of other persons, the emotions or feelings exist- 
ing in the Mental States of the person sending out 
the waves or currents. 

THE MENTAL POLES. 

I have also explained that there are two Mental 
Poles known as the Motive and Emotive Poles, re- 
spectively, which manifest Will-Power and Desire 
Force, respectively. Desire Force acts in the direc- 
tion of drawing, pulling, attracting, luring, coaxing, 
charming, etc.; while Will Power acts in the direc- 
tion of compelling, forcing, driving, impelling, com- 
manding, demanding, etc. Desire always draws its ob- 
ject toward itself ; while Will always overpowers and 
compels its object, generally in the sense of driving it 
into action. In Mental Fascination both Desire Force, 



What is " Mental Fascination "? n 

and Will Power are employed — generally in combina- 
tion. Desire Force has been called the Feminine 
phase of Mentative Energy ; and Will Power the Mas- 
culine. And in this as in everything else, the com- 
bination of the two qualities produces the most marked 
results. The student will be able to distinguish be- 
tween the action of these two phases of the force, as 
he reads the pages of this book, in which instances of 
Mental Fascination are given. 

This is all that I shall have to say about theory in 
this book, except where the various points are brought 
out in illustrating the examples given. I must refer 
my students to my "Secret of Mental Magic" for de- 
tails of theory and principle. The present book deals 
with the "HOW?" rather than the "Why?" 



CHAPTER II. 

MENTAL FASCINATION AMONG THE ANI- 
MALS. 

Even before the human race was evolved, Mental 
Fascination was known instinctively to the lower 
forms of life. It is said that the celte in the blood of 
living things become aware of the 'presence of each 
other, at distances which must preclude any theory of 
ordinary sense "awareness." Not only do they recog- 
nize or "sense" the presence of each other, but they 
seem to be attracted toward each other by some force, 
or fascination, which must operate along the lines of 
Desire and Will. Eminent scientists inform us that 
even the atoms manifest an attraction for each other, 
varying in degree according to the nature of the re- 
spective atoms. And the same authorities tell us that 
this attracting operates along the lines of a "desire" 
for each other, and a "will" which causes them to flv 
to each other. Is it not reasonable to suppose that in 
this instinctive manifestation of Attraction, and the 
response to Attraction, among the Atoms there is to 
be found the elemental principle of Mental Fascina- 

12 



Mental Fascination Among Animals 13 

tion, and Magnetic Attraction, related to the human 
tion ? And are not the phenomena of Electrical Attrac- 
phenomena by a long series of links in a grand chain ? 

THE TWO PHASES. 

But, leaving the above questions without further 
consideration, we may find an abundance of proof 
among the higher forms of the "lower animals." 
Among the animals we find many instances of the 
power of "charming" or "fascinating," both of which 
I hold to be but varying forms of manifestation of 
Mental Fascination as I use the term, i. e., "The action 
of a Mental Force that powerfully influences the imag- 
ination, desire, or will of another." This Mental Fas- 
cination, among the animals, manifests along two lines, 
viz., (1) along the lines of Desire operating in the 
direction of Sex manifestation, such as the winning of 
mates, etc. ; and (2) along the lines of Will operation 
in the direction of overcoming the Prey of the animal, 
such as the "charming" of birds by serpents, or of 
smaller animals by tigers, etc. These cases are capable 
of liberal illustration and proof, and natural history 
affords us full authority for accepting the same. 

INSTANCES OF ANIMAL FASCINATION. 

I recently read an account of a naturalist, who re- 
lated that one day in a tropical country he noticed a 
winged insect circling around and around a scorpion. 



14 Mental Fascination 

After a bit, the insect made a series of desperate 
plunges at the scorpion, as if in a frantic desire to ter- 
minate the charm ; the scorpion soon striking down the 
insect, and afterwards devouring it. It is related by 
travelers that when one comes suddenly in the pres- 
ence of a lion, tiger, or leopard, his legs seem par- 
alyzed, and the eyes of the beast seem to exert a pe- 
culiar fascination and power over him. I have seen a 
mouse manifest the same emotion in the presence of 
a cat ; and the same is true of a rat in the presence of 
a ferret, or similar enemy. On the other hand, every 
observer has noticed the wonderful "charming" power 
that animals exert over others of their kind, of the op- 
posite sex. If you have ever witnessed the courting of 
a bird, during the mating season, you will have a keen 
sense of the reality of the power employed. One of 
the birds, and it may be either a male or female, will 
be seen to actually "fascinate" or "charm" the one of 
the opposite sex, the latter lying still with quivering 
wings, and a helpless expression in its eyes. When 
compared with the attitude of the same bird, when 
charmed by a serpent, the resemblance will be striking. 

SCIENTIFIC TESTIMONY. 

I have before me a book written in 1847, which re- 
lates quite a number of instances of the operation of 
Mental Fascination among the lower animals. I will 
give you a few of them, condensed, and abbreviated. 



Mental Fascination Among Animals 15 

Prof. Silliman is quoted as stating that one day, while 
crossing the Hudson River, at Catskill, he passed along 
a narrow road with the river on one side, and a steep 
bank, covered by bushes, on the other side. His at- 
tention was attracted by the sight of a number of 
birds, of a variety of species, who were flying forward 
and backward across the road, turning and wheeling in 
strange gyrations, and with noisy chirpings, seemingly 
centering over a particular point of the road. Upon 
examination the Professor found an enormous black- 
snake, partly coiled, and partly erect, showing an ap- 
pearance of great animation, with his eyes flashing 
like a brilliant diamond, and his tongue darting in and 
out. The snake was the center of the motion of the 
birds. The Professor adds that although the snake 
disappeared in the bushes, frightened at the approach 
of the men, still the birds seemed too dazed to escape, 
and perched on the near-by bushes, evidently awaiting 
the reappearance of their "charmer." 

THE CHARMING BY SNAKES. 

The same book relates an incident of a man in 
Pennsylvania, who saw a large blacksnake charming a 
bird. The bird described gradually decreasing circles 
around the snake, at the same time uttering piteous 
cries. It seemed almost ready to drop into the jaws of 
the snake, when the man drove off the latter, when 
the bird arose with a song of joy. 



1 6 Mental Fascination 

Another case is related of a ground-squirrel, which 
was observed running to-and-fro between a creek and 
a large tree a few yards distant. The squirrel's fur 
was badly ruffled, and he exhibited fright and distress. 
Investigation disclosed the head and neck of a rattle- 
snake, protruding from the hole of the tree, and point- 
ing directly at the squirrel. The poor squirrel at last 
gave up the fight, and yielding to the fascination, laid 
himself down with his head very close to the snake's 
mouth. The snake then proceeded to swallow the 
squirrel, when his meal was interrupted with a cut of 
a carriage whip in the hands of the observer, and the 
squirrel, released from the spell, ran briskly away. 

INTERESTING INSTANCES. 

Dr. Good is quoted as having made quite a study of 
the curious fascinating power that rattlesnakes mani- 
fest over small animals, such as birds, squirrels, young 
hares, etc. He relates that these animals seem incap- 
able of drawing their eyes away from those of the 
snake, and, although seemingly struggling to get away, 
they still gradually approach the snake, as though 
urged toward him, or attracted by a power superior to 
their natural instincts. He goes on to state that the 
animal creeps nearer and nearer, until at last it is 
drawn into the serpent's mouth, which has been open 
all the while to receive them. Dr. Barrow is quoted 



Mental Fascination Among Animals 17 

as relating many instances of this kind, known to peas- 
ants in all parts of the world. Valliant, the African 
traveler, tells of an instance in which he witnessed a 
shrike in the very act of being fascinated by a large 
snake at a distance, the fiery eyes and open mouth of 
which were gradually approaching the bird, the latter 
manifesting convulsive trembling and uttering pierc- 
ing shrieks of distress. The traveler shot the snake, 
but upon picking up the bird, he found it dead — killed 
either by fear or the power of the serpent, or perhaps 
by the violent breaking of the spell. He measured 
the distance between the snake and the bird and found 
it to be three and one-half feet. 

STRANGE STORIES. 

A case is related in one of the early reports of the 
Philosophical Society, in which a mouse was put in a 
cage with a viper, by way of an experiment. The 
mouse at first seemed greatlv agitated, which state 
was followed by a condition of fascination, the mouse 
drawing nearer and nearer to the viper which remained 
motionless with distended jaws, and glistening eyes. 
The mouse, finally, actually entered the jaws of the 
viper, and was devoured. 

Bruse, the African traveler, relates that the natives 
of an interior tribe seem to be protected by nature 
against the bite of scorpions and vipers. They are 



1 8 Mental Fascination 

said to handle these creatures fearlessly, the latter 
seeming to be robbed of their power of resistance. He 
states that the creatures seem to sicken the moment 
they are touched by these natives, and are sometimes 
so exhausted by the invisible fascinating power that 
they perish shortly. He says, "I have constantly ob- 
served that however lively the viper was before, upon 
being seized by any of these barbarians, he seemed as 
if taken with sickness and feebleness, and frequently 
would shut his eyes, and would never turn his mouth 
toward the arm that held him." 



Personally, I have seen a somewhat similar case. 
When I was a boy, in Maryland, I knew of a farm- 
hand who was called a "snake-charmer." How he 
did it, I never could find out, but he would exert some 
kind of influence over all kinds of snakes, poisonous 
ones included, and would cause them to remain fasci- 
nated until with a quick movement he would grab 
them by the neck with his bare hands. This man gen- 
erally carried a few pet snakes around with him for 
company. They seemed perfectly contented, and 
would poke their heads up from out of his pocket, in 
order to look at some one else with whom he might 
be talking. The negroes on the farm had a mortal 
terror of this man, and would walk a couple of miles 
rather than pass by his house. 



Mental Fascination Among Animals 19 

FASCINATING FIERCE ANIMALS. 

The power of charming animals, dogs and wild- 
beasts is undoubtedly possessed by some men, in vary- 
ing degrees. And nearly everyone has known of men 
who could "charm" the wildest horses, as if by magic. 
I have read of some burglars who seemed able to quiet 
the most ferocious watch-dogs. The Swedish writer, 
Lindecrantz tells of certain natives of Lapland who 
are possessed of some process of charming dogs, to 
such an extent that they have been known to cow the 
most savage great-hound, causing him to fly from 
them with all the signs of abject fear. Many of my 
readers have seen, or heard of, the horse "whisperers" 
found in various parts of the country, who will shut 
themselves in a stable with a fierce horse, and by 
"whispering" to him will manage to tame him com- 
pletely, and make him passive to their will. 

CHARMED BY A SNAKE. 

There are cases recorded in which men who have 
been "charmed" by a snake, have afterwards given in 
their experience. One of these cases relates that the 
man was walking in his garden when he suddenly 
came into the presence of a snake whose eyes gleamed 
in a peculiar manner. He found himself fascinated, 
as if by a spell, and unable to withdraw his eyes from 
those of the creature. The snake, he stated afterward, 
seemed to begin to increase immensely in size, and as- 



20 Mental Fascination 

sumed, in rapid succession, a mixture of brilliant col- 
ors. He grew dizzy and would have fallen in the di- 
rection of the snake, had not his wife approached, 
throwing her arms about him, and breaking the spell. 
Another similar case is related, in which a man found 
his companion standing still on the road, with his eyes 
fixed intently upon those of a large rattlesnake which 
was regarding "him fixedly with gleaming eyes, scin- 
tillating in its raised head. The man was leaning to- 
ward the snake, and would have fallen toward it in a 
few moments. He was crying, feebly, but piteously, 
"He will bite me ! He will kill me !" "Sure, he will," 
replied his friend, "why don't you run away? Why 
are you staying here ?■" But the man seemed perfectly 
dazed, and distracted, and could not answer. The 
companion finally picked up a stick and struck at the 
snake, which glided ^away savagely. The fascinated 
man was sick for several hours afterward. 

A PERSONAL EXPERIENCE. 

When I was a boy, I had a somewhat similar experi- 
ence, although not nearly so serious. Walking one 
day among a grove of trees belonging to my grand- 
father, I found myself standing staring intently at a 
snake about two feet long whose eyes glistened 
like large diamonds. In a moment I ceased 
to see anything but those awful eyes which 
glistened and displayed all the prismatic colors 



Mental Fascination Among Animals 21 

to my frightened glance. It lasted but a mo- 
ment, however, for the snake glided away, seemingly 
as anxious to get away from me as I was to part com- 
pany with him. I cannot say whether the spell would 
have been broken by me, if the snake had not moved 
away — perhaps it might, or perhaps not. All that I 
remember now, after the passage of thirty-five years 
or more, is that I did not seem to feel fear after the 
first shock, my feeling and emotion seemingly being 
that of great wonder, and amazement arising from 
what I saw in those eyes. 

AN ELEMENTAL FORCE. 

But I have said enough regarding the manifestation 
of Mental Fascination among the lower animals. There 
are many interesting instances of this sort, scattered 
through the pages of books on animal life, and nearly 
everyone who has lived in the woods, or among wild 
life knows of many cases illustrating this fact which 
have come under his own observation. I have men- 
tioned these features of the subject merely for the pur- 
pose of showing you that we have to deal with a gen- 
eral natural principle which manifests throughout all 
life. This book has to deal with the manifestation of 
this force among men. But in closing this chapter, I 
would ask you to notice the resemblance between the 
manifestation of the force among the animals, on the 
one hand, and among mankind on the other. 



22 Mental Fascination 

The animals employ the force for two purposes, 
i. e., the captivating of mates, and the capture of prey. 
And how do men and women use it? Along similar 
lines ! Yes, I mean this, as startling as it may appear. 
For is not the use of fascination, in the direction of 
attracting the other sex akin to the sex-charming no- 
ticed among the birds and animals ? And is not the use 
of fascination in the direction of influencing men and 
women along the lines of business, or personal inter- 
est, akin to the "charming" of prey by wild animals, 
serpents, etc.? You may see that evolution simply 
changes the form of use in this and other natural qual- 
ities, and power — the force or power remaining the 
same, under all of the changes. And, does it not be- 
come important for us to understand, study, and guard 
ourselves against the employment of such an elemental 
force as this, which manifests along all planes of life, 
from lowest to highest ? I emphatically answer, Yes ! 



CHAPTER III. 

THE STORY OF MENTAL FASCINATION. 

The story of Mental Fascination runs along with 
the history of the human race, for it has always been 
known to man in some form. Coming to primitive 
man along with other inheritances from still lower 
forms, it was used from the beginning. Its earliest 
forms were similar to its employment by the lower 
animals, such as has been mentioned in the preceding 
chapter. The strong-willed of the race influenced and 
dominated the weaker-willed ones. Without under- 
standing its laws, the strong-willed barbarians discov- 
ered that they possessed a strange power of inducing 
mental states among their weaker-willed companions, 
and were thus enabled to work their will upon them. 
Many of the leaders of barbarian races owe their po- 
sitions of prominence and leadership to this law of 
mental induction. 

THE MAGIC OF THE PRIESTS. 

But along with the rise of leaders there was mani- 
fested a similar rise in power and influence of the 

23 



24 Mental Fascination 

priests. All races have had their priests, and have to- 
day. A priest is a man whose office is that of a medi- 
ator between men and their divinities — one who claims 
to represent the supernatural entities in their dealings 
with men — a religious, or spiritual "middle-man," as 
it were (I use this expression in all seriousness, and 
with no desire to sneer at the priestly offices, which 
have played an important part in the history of the 
race). The priests, not being occupied with warfare, 
or agriculture, and by reason of their support being 
contributed by the people, found plenty of time to 
"think," a somewhat rare privilege in the early days 
(and even in these times, for that matter). And, so, 
there gradually arose, among all peoples, a priestly 
caste that possessed the bulk of intelligence of the 
race. These priests soon began to recognize the im- 
y/ portance of the Mental Forces, and they studied the 
underlying principles and laws of operation. This 
of course gave them an additional hold on the people, 
and a power over them. There seems to be no doubt 
but that even in the early days of the race, the priestly 
caste held a very wide knowledge of the laws and 
practice of Mental Fascination. 

MYSTIC POWERS. 

In the heart of Africa today, we find the Voodoo 
men, or Conjurers, or Medicine Men, well versed in 
the application of Mental Fascination. It was also 



Story of Mental Fascination 25 

known among the early American Indians, although 
their degenerated descendants seem to have lost the 
knowledge, except in a few instances. The power of 
the priesthood among primitive races, is based almost 
entirely upon some form of Mental Fascination. And, 
as we see the race ascending in the scale, so do we 
see the priests displaying a broader and fuller knowl- 
edge of the subject in question. The history of the 
Oriental races show that a full knowledge of the op- 
eration of Mental Fascination has been possessed by 
them for thousands of years. In the pictured stories ^ 
of the Egyptians, the traces of which appear in their 
ruined temples and other buildings, we see that they 
understood the art perfectly. In ancient Persia and 
Chaldea, the art arose to great heights. In fact, among 
all of the advanced ancient races of men, we find an 
important place given to the subject before us. 

THE ANCIENT MYSTERIES. 

Among the Ancient Mysteries, and the various cere- 
monies of the temples, of the early races, we see many 
instances of the use of Mental Fascination. Back of 
the rites and ceremonies was always the same un- 
derlying principle of Mentative Induction. In the 
early use of the force, its employment was largely 
along the lines of healing, which phase of the subject 
does not concern us in this particular manual, al- 
though it belongs to the general subject of Mental 



26 Mental Fascination 

Magic. But still we read in the pages of early his- 
tory of many instances of Mental Fascination, pure 
and simple. That which was afterward called Mes- 
merism, Hypnotism, etc., was well known to the an- 
cients, and, in fact, some of the recorded results com- 
ing down to us from the past, have never been equalled 
by modern experimentors. Some of the feats of the 
modern Hindu magicians, or fakirs, which will be men- 
tioned in detail, as we proceed, have never been 
equalled by Western hypnotists. 

THE TALE OF THE MAGI. 

As I have stated in Lesson IV, of "Mental Magic," 
the name "Magnet," given to the Lodestone, or nat- 
ural magnet,. was bestowed by the ancients because the 
observed properties of the lodestone resembled the 
mental power of the Magi or esoteric priesthood of 
ancient Persia and Medea. These priests were the 
"Magi," or "Wise Men," of the East, who had de- 
veloped wonderful mentative powers, and who were 
known as wonder workers. The word "Magic" comes 
from the same source. When the attracting power 
and quality of induction, of the lodestone were noticed, 
it was remarked that the physical phenomena closely 
resembled the mental phenomena of the Magi,' and, 
therefore, the lodestone was called "the Magian Stone," 
or "the Magic Stone," from which sprung the terms 
"Magnet" and "Magnetism." 



Story of Mental Fascination 27 

As the centuries rolled by and the Western world 
had its attention called to the mysterious phenomena 
of Mesmerism, etc., in the Eighteenth Century, the 
public mind instinctively connected the phenomena 
with that of Magnetism, and the terms "Animal Mag- 
netism," "Personal Magnetism," etc., came into gen- 
eral use. And these terms persist to this day, and we 
hear the terms "very magnetic" ; "lacking magnet- 
ism"; "magnetic personality," etc., etc., as applied to 
people. And so history worked out an instance of 
the law of compensation. The Magnet, which took its 
name because its properties resembled the phenomena 
resulting from the use of Mentative Influence by the 
Magi, repaid the debt after many centuries, and served 
to give a name to mental manifestations resembling 
those of the Magi in the dim past. The Magnet gives 
back to the modern Magi the name it borrowed from 
the Magi of Ancient Persia. This is an interesting bit 
of Occult History little known to the general public. 

julius caesar's fascination. 

Ancient history is full of instances of the operation 
of Mental Fascination among the people of the early 
days. It is related that Julius Caesar, while quite a 
young man, fell in with pirates near the Isle of 
Rhodes, who captured his ship, and took him prisoner. 
They held him for several weeks, while awaiting the 
ransom money being raised by his relatives. Plutarch 



28 Mental Fascination 

writes that while the young Caesar was the captive of 
the pirates, he asserted his mastery over them to such 
an extent that he seemed a ruler rather than a pris- 
oner. When he wished to rest or sleep, he forbade 
them to make any noise, and they obeyed him without 
question. He abused them and ordered them around 
like servants, and they did not seem able to disobey 
him. He did not hesitate to threaten them with death 
when he regained his liberty, and they did not resent 
it — and he afterward made good his threats. 

THE MYSTIC POWER OF ALCIBIADES. 

It is related of Alcibiades, the Athenian, that he 
once made a bet with some of the young Athenian 
nobles, that he would publicly box the ears of Hip- 
ponikos, a venerable and greatly respected citizen. Not 
only did he bet that he would do this thing, but he also 
claimed that he would afterward compel the old man 
to give him his favorite daughter in marriage. The 
day following, when Hipponikos came out, Alcibiades 
walked up to him and gave him a resounding box on 
the ears. The old man seemed dazed and bewildered 
and retired to his home. A great public outcry arose, 
and the young man seemed likely to fall a victim to 
the indignation of the citizens. But the next day Al- 
cibiades went to the home of Hipponikos and, after 
making a pretence of baring his back for punishment, 
he managed to induce in the old man a feeling of good 



Story of Mental Fascination 29 

humor and mirth, and obtained his pardon and good- 
will, the latter increasing daily thereafter until finally 
he grew so devoted to the young man that he offered 
him the hand of his daughter in marriage, which was 
accepted. Any one who is acquainted with the re- 
corded character of the Athenians will realize what a 
wonderful occurrence this was. It was a striking ex- 
hibition of Mental Fascination, without a question. 

THE NAPOLEONIC CHARM. 

All the great generals of history have possessed this 
quality. Caesar, Alexander the Great, Napoleon, Fred- 
erick the Great, and the modern Mystic-Warrior, 
Gen. Gordon, all managed their men in a mysterious 
and wonderful manner, so that their troops worshiped 
them as almost gods, and went to their death willingly 
and joyfully. The single instance of Napoleon, when 
he returned from Elba, and confronted the Bourbon 
army drawn up to capture him, should satisfy any one 
of the possession of the greatest Fascinating power by 
this wonderful man. You remember that the troops 
were drawn up confronting Napoleon, their muskets 
leveled at his breast in obedience to the command 
"Aim!" Napoleon, who was on foot, marched delib- 
erately toward the troops, with measured tread, gaz- 
ing directly into their eyes. Then the officers shouted, 
"Fire!" A single shot would have killed Napoleon, 
and would have brought to the man who fired it a for- 



30 Mental Fascination 

tune from the Bourbon King. But not a man obeyed 
the order, so completely were they under the spell of 
Napoleon's fascination. Instead of firing, they threw 
down their guns and ran joyfully toward the Corsican 
shouting, "Vive I'Empereur!" Their officers fled, and 
Napoleon, placing himself at the head of the troops, 
marched on to Paris. Other troops flocked to his 
standard at each point where he confronted them, al- 
though they had been sent out to capture or kill him. 
By the time the gat4^>f Paris were reached, he was 
at the head of an immense army. The fascination 
manifested by this man was one of the marked in- 
stances of its possession of which we have any record. 
And it seems to endure to this day — almost a century 
after his death. The very mention of his name makes 
one's blood tingle. 

MODERN EXAMPLES. 

All great leaders of men, statesmen, orators, politi- 
cians, etc., have the power of Mental Fascination de- 
veloped to a considerable degree. If you have ever 
come in contact with a man of this sort, you will al- 
ways remember the impression he made upon you. 
Every man who knew James G. Blaine, will remember 
his "Personal Magnetism," of which so much was 
said during his lifetime. Anyone who heard the fa- 
mous speech of Wm. J. Bryan, at the Chicago Conven- 
tion, in which he made use of the famous expression : 



Story of Mental Fascination 31 

"Thou shalt not press upon the brow of Labor the 
crown of thorns; thou shalt not crucify Mankind upon 
a Cross of Gold," needs no further proof of the reality 
of Mental Fascination. 

Bryan was almost unknown to the majority of the 
delegates, and no thought of nominating him was en- 
tertained by them. But his "Magnetism" was so great 
that it swept the convention like a mighty tidal-wave, 
carrying all before it, and BryA was carried around 
the hall on the shoulders of tipplelegates, who after- 
ward made him their nominee for President. And 
although defeated twice, this man still possesses a 
wonderful fascination over hundreds of thousands of 
people in this country, who would rally around his 
standard at any time that he would sound the call. 
Henry Ward Beecher, at the great meeting in Eng- 
land, manifested the same power. The whole meeting 
was against him, and drowned his words by hoots, 
yells; and other noises. But Beecher looked them 
straight in the eye, and gradually cowed them into sub- 
jection, and then talked to them for two hours, and 
fairly carried the meeting by storm. He was but one 
man facing thousands of other men hostile to him, 
and determined to prevent him from speaking. But 
the single man won — by the power of his Mental Fas- 
cination, manifesting in the phase of WILL. It was 
not alone the words, in these cases — it was the WILL 
behind the words. The WILL is an actual living 



32 Mental Fascination 

force, and is one of the two great phases, or poles, of 
Mental Fascination. 

MESMER AND HIS WORK. 

Coming down to the latter part of the Eighteenth 
Century and omitting all reference to the phenomena 
of Mental Fascination recorded in the Middle Ages, 
we reach what may be called the beginning of the re- 
vival of the subject among the Western peoples. I 
allude to the work of Frederick Anton Mesmer, a 
man who understood far more than he taught, but who 
was regarded as a charlatan and a trickster by the 
ignorant "learned men" of his day. Those who are 
informed regarding the secret history of Mesmer 
know that he was an occultist of no mean attainments, 
who was compelled to cloak his real teachings with 
popular theories and sensational phenomena, in order 
to gain the attention of the world, and also to escape 
religious persecutions. 

Mesmer was born in 1734, and in 1775 began his 
work in Vienna by writing and teaching about a mys- 
terious "universal fluid" which was able to control 
the wills of people, and also cure them of diseases, and 
which could be controlled and operated by man. He 
taught that there was a universal fluid which perme- 
ated everything, and was capable of receiving and 
communicating all kinds of motions and impressions. 
This "fluid" he thought acted immediately upon the 



Story of Mental Fascination 33 

nerves, in which it is embodied, and produced in the 
human body phenomena similar to that of the lode- 
stone or magnet. He called this fluid "animal mag- 
netism." He taught that this "magnetism" flowed 
rapidly from body to body ; acted at a distance ; was 
reflected by a mirror, like light, etc., etc. Mesmer at- 
tracted to himself great attention and great abuse. On 
the one hand he was sneered and scoffed at, and also 
driven out of the church for possessing "the power of 
the devil," and "witchcraft." But on the other hand, 
he gathered around him a body of supporters and stu- 
dents. He was "investigated" by a Ro^al Commis- 
sion, and by scientific bodies, with varying results. The 
coming of the French Revolution interfered with the 
general interest in the subject for a number of years. 
Mesmer's followers adhered to his general lines of 
theory and practice, with unimportant additions or 
changes. 

THE ABBE FARIA. 

In 1814, the Abbe Faria attracted much interest in 
Paris. His theories were different from those of Mes- 
mer, inasmuch as he claimed that the "sleep" pro- 
duced by Mesmer and his followers was not the re- 
sult of any outside force, but was caused by the pa- 
tient himself. For a number of years a spirited con- 
test was waged between the two schools of "Mesmer- 
ists," and much bad feeling was developed. 



34 Mental Fascination 

BRAID AND "HYPNOTISM." 

Then came James Braid, the Manchester surgeon, 
who proceeded to tear down the accepted theories, sub- 
stituting one of his own. Braid may be called the 
father of "Hypnotism," the term being first employed 
in connection with his work. His theory was that there 
was no such thing as "animal magnetism," but the 
phenomena obtained by Mesmer and his followers was 
caused by a physiological condition brought about by 
physical means, such as fixing the eyes, rigidity of the 
muscles, etc. Braid made some very important con- 
tributions to the knowledge on the subject, although, 
of course, all that he wrote or taught was colored by 
his own particular theories. Braid regarded the "hyp- 
notic sleep" produced by his methods, as the necessary 
condition and cause of the phenomena of "animal 
magnetism." Braid's writings brought the subject be- 
fore the attention of physicians, who had up to his 
time avoided it as "unprofessional," etc., and a series 
of investigations by medical men in France and Ger- 
many were begun, and have continued up to this time. 
The result of such investigation has been the placing 
of the subject upon a "scientific" basis. 

LIEBAULT AND SUGGESTION. 

Dr. Liebault, of the School of Nancy, France, first 
brought into prominence the theory of "Suggestion," 
which has since found so many followers. Dr. Bern- 



Story of Mental Fascination 35 

heim, a pupil of Liebault, in his work "Suggestive 
Therapeutics," carried his teacher's theories on still 
further. The theory of Suggestion, as taught by Lie- 
bault and Bernheim, was that the cause of the phe- 
nomena of "mesmerism" and "animal magnetism," etc., 
lay in the "Verbal Suggestion," or "Verbal Command" 
of the Hypnotist to the subject, given and received 
while the subject was in a deep hypnotic sleep. This 
"hypnotic sleep" was considered to be an essential and 
fundamental pre-requisite of the phenomena. It was 
all "SLEEP," with the teachers, students, and investi- 
gators at that day — and the majority of them are still 
under the spell of the old teachings. 

bernheim's mistake. 

As an instance of how near a man may come to a 
thing, and still miss it, I may mention that Bernheim 
has recorded that in rare cases, where the conditions 
were exceptionally favorable, he could obtain results 
even when the subject was not asleep. But he missed 
his opportunity of following up this promising lead, 
and to the end he proceeded upon the belief and theory 
that the "hypnotic sleep" was a necessary precedent to 
the phenomena obtained. He endeavored to produce 
the condition of "deep sleep," or "profound hypnosis" 
believing that the same was a necessary condition for 
"suggestibility." The very word "Hypnosis" arises 
from the Greek word meaning "to lull to sleep," so 



36 Mental Fascination 

you can see how deeply this idea of "sleep" was and is, 
among hypnotists. Remember this, always, please — 
HYPNOSIS MEANS A CONDITION OF SLEEP, 
so never use the word in any other way. Mental Fas- 
cination is not Hypnosis, although Hypnosis is a form 
of application of Mental Fascination. 

THE NEW SCHOOL. 

During the past ten years or so there has arisen a 
new school of investigators of the phenomena of 
"Mesmerism," etc. This new school proceeds upon 
the theory that the "hypnotic sleep" is merely an inci- 
dent, and that all the phenomena obtained by the ear- 
lier authorities is possible without the production of 
the sleep condition. In other words, SLEEP IS NOT 
A NECESSARY CONDITION OF SUGGESTI- 
BILITY. This brings the new school of the Sug- 
gestionists very near to the occult idea of "Mental 
Fascination," although there are some radical differ- 
ences, as I shall show in a moment. In 1884 Dr. 
Bremand announced that had made the discovery that 
there is a "fourth hypnotic ( ?) state," which he called 
"Fascination," which left the subject in full conscious- 
ness of his surroundings, and remembrance of what 
had taken place. If Bremand had only had the cour- 
age to omit the fetich-word "hypnotic" from his state- 
ment, he would have founded a new school. But he 
didn't! The German, Froman, wrote a large book on 



Story of Mental Fascination 37 

the subject of "Fascination," which he defined as 
"Hypnotism, without the putting to sleep." 

THE TRUTH ABOUT SUGGESTION. 

Some of the best work along the "without-sleep 
hypnotism" (?) has been done by American experi- 
menters and investigators (principally physicians), 
nearly all of whom believe that "Suggestion" is the 
explanation of the whole thing, and that there is no 
such thing as the passage of "Mental Currents." These 
"Suggestionists" hold that the subject acts upon the 
Command and Suggestion, and does what he is told — 
and that that is all there is to it. The "Suggestible 
Condition" to them means a condition in which the 
subject yields up his whole "attention" to the operator, 
and thus becomes "suggestible," the degrees varying 
with the temperament, etc., of the subject. 

While the "Suggestionists" believe that Suggestion 
is the whole explanation and cause, I hold that it is 
but one of the methods of producing the effects, and 
that back of Suggestion is the Induction of the Mental 
State by the Suggestor, as I have stated in my work 
on "Mental Magic," and as I shall bring out in the 
present manual. 

PERSONAL MAGNETISM. 

Along with the new theories of "Suggestion without 
Sleep," there has arisen a great interest in "Personal 



38 Mental Fascination 

Magnetism," during the past few years. There has 
been much written on the subject — some good and 
some ridiculous, and some between the two extremes. 
The laws of the subject are being studied by the think- 
ing public. There has been a great revival in the in- 
terest in Occultism, which together with the various 
phases of Mental Science, Theosophy, New Thought, 
and kindred subjects, has attracted the attention of a 
large portion of the public to the general subject of 
Mental Magic, and to the special subject of Mental 
Fascination, in particular. And this manual is writ- 
ten in response to the present demand for definite in- 
formation on the subject. 

I feel sure that I will be able to show you that the 
Law of Mentative Energy, in its operation along the 
line of Mentative Currents, as stated in my book on 
"Mental Magic," will account for all the phenomena 
mentioned above in the History of the General Sub- 
ject, as well as many other forms. I believe that I can 
bring it all under the definition of "The action of a 
Mental Force that powerfully influences the imagina- 
tion, desire, or will of another"— which is my defini- 
tion of "Mental Fascination." 



CHAPTER IV. 

THE RECONCILIATION. 

In my last chapter I have shown you the opposing 
theories of the various schools which have investigated 
and experimented along the lines of Mental Fascina- 
tion, under some of its many names. All of these 
schools obtained results, notwithstanding their vary- 
ing and diametrically opposite theories — the same kind 
of results, remember. And more than this they all ob- 
tained these results in very much the same way, when 
we come to examine the essence of the procedure, after 
discarding the forms added to fit in with the particular 
theories of the practitioner. 

A NEW SYNTHESIS. 

I believe that all the opposing theories of the schools 
may be reconciled by a new synthesis — that of Menta- 
tive Energy with its incidental phenomena of Menta- 
tive Induction, as set forth in my "Mental Magic," 
and further expounded in this little manual of which 
this chapter is a part. I believe that theories so far 
divergent as Mesmer's Universal Magnetic Fluid — 

39 



40 Mental Fascination 

Abbe Faria's Sleep — Braid's Hypnotism — Bovee Dods' 
Electro-Biology — Liebault's Suggestion — Bernheim's 
Suggestion — the later Suggestion-without-Sleep — 
Bremand's Fascination — and the various other theo- 
ries advanced since the time of Mesmer — can be recon- 
ciled and harmonized by a careful application of the 
theory of Mentative Induction as advanced in my work 
on "Mental Magic." 

And I believe that all the phenomena obtained by 
any and all of the above schools; as well as the phe- 
nomena of the Ancient Fascinators ; and the phenom- 
ena known as "Personal Magnetism," "Charming," 
"Personal Influence," "Magnetic Personality," etc., 
etc., of ancient and modern times, may be accounted 
for by the same theory. And so this chapter shall be 
devoted to the reconciliation of the various old the- 
ories with this basic principle of Mentative Induction. 

MESMER EXPLAINED. 

Let us first examine the real facts underlying Mes- 
mer's theory of the Universal Magnetic Fluid. Mes- 
mer taught that there existed a peculiar subtle fluid, 
"magnetic" in its nature, which was diffused through- 
out all space ; which permeated everything, and which 
was capable of receiving and communicating all sorts 
of motions and impressions. He taught that this 
"fluid" flowed freely from one body to another, acted 
at a distance, and could be reflected by a mirror, etc. 



The Reconciliation 41 

He did not explain what this "fluid" was, except that 
it produced "magnetic" effects, and must therefore be 
magnetic in its nature. He proved that he could pro- 
duce effects, and he gave out a theory to fit in with 
the facts, and that was within the comprehension of 
the people of his time. 

Now, let us apply the idea of Universal Mentative 
Energy, with its incidental phenomena of Mentative 
Induction, to Mesmer's theory, and see how easily the 
reconciliation is effected. The Mentative Energy, like 
Mesmer's "fluid," is Universal ; is diffused through all 
space; permeates everything. Like the "fluid" it ap- 
parently passes from body to body and communicates 
impressions, etc. But we now know that the Energy 
is transmitted in waves or vibrations which reproduce 
the original feeling by Mentative Induction in the sec- 
ond person. There is no necessity for the flowing 
"fluid" any more than there is for an "electric fluid" 
flowing over the wires, or through the air. The "fluid" 
idea has been superseded by the "wave" idea, in both 
physics and metaphysics. 

THE NATURE OF THE "MAGNETIC FLUID." 

We may readily see that this "magnetic fluid" the- 
ory of Mesmer may be explained by the theory of Men- 
tative Energy, and Mentative Induction. There is no 
"magnetic" fluid. The Energy is Mental in nature 
and operation and the phenomena arising therefrom is 



42 Mental Fascination 

Mentative also. Mesmer sought for his answer in 
physics — but we find it in metaphysics. The force is 
not physical — it is mental. 

All the phenomena obtained by Mesmer, and his fol- 
lowers, may be accounted for by the theory of Menta- 
tive Energy, and Mentative Induction. The Mental 
States of the Mesmerist may be communicated to his 
"subject" by waves of Mentative Energy, and a cor- 
responding feeling or Mental State is induced by Men- 
tative Induction. As we shall see as we proceed, the 
"sleep" of the Mesmerists and Hypnotists is merely an 
induced condition arising from the desire in the mind 
of the operator, accompanied by the Suggestion on 
his part. 

FARIA EXPLAINED. 

The theory of Abbe Faria, that the "sleep" condition 
was not the result of any outside force, but arose from 
within the patient himself, is also reconciled by the 
theory of Mentative Energy and Induction. Of course 
the "sleep" arises from within the patient himself — 
but it is induced by the waves of Mentative Energy of 
the operator, accompanied by his active Suggestions. 

BRAID RECONCILED. 

Braid's theory is also reconciled. He held that the 
phenomena was of a physical nature, rather than a 
mental, and that it was a reflex physical action arising 
from fixing the eyes, rigidity of the muscles, etc. His 



The Reconciliation 43 

hypnotic sleep was undoubtedly heightened by his 
practice of tiring the eyes and muscles, on the same 
principle that one is tired mentally by unusual exer- 
cise of the eyes, as in the cases of visiting an art gal- 
lery, museum, strange city, etc., and that the power 
of resistance is thereby weakened, and one is far more 
likely to then accept suggestions of mentative waves. 
How many of us have felt mentally "done out" after 
visiting a museum, or after witnessing a long parade, 
or after sitting through a modern circus performance, 
with its three rings going at one time ? And who does 
not remember how many foolish things he had done 
at times when he was "too tuckered out" to object to 
the suggestions and influences of those around him. 

A DANGER SIGNAL. 

Many a girl has gone to her ruin by the subtle sug- 
gestions and influence of some male scoundrel, di- 
rected toward her after an evening of the "show," or 
circus or after a day of sight-seeing in a strange city. 
I tell you, friends, that in such cases the Will becomes 
tired by overuse arising from unaccustomed tasks, and 
it becomes "woozy" and incapable of resisting the at- 
tacks upon it. As I have told you in my larger work, 
beware of all suggestions, etc., when in a tired state. 
Make a habit of saying "No!" to attempts to make 
you commit yourself at such times. Wait until you 
feel fresh and strong, and the Will is able to attend to 



\s 






44 Mental Fascination 

its business for you. Many a man has said "Yes !" to 
his sorrow, to propositions advanced to him when he 
was tired by the day's work, and his Will was weak 
and unable to resist. I cannot say this to you too 
often, and have therefore dragged it in again at this 
place. There is a great psychological principle in- 
volved in this point, and you will do well to fasten it 
in your memory. 

Braid's theory may be reconciled to the idea of 
Mentative Energy and Induction, when we see that 
his eye fixation, and muscular rigidity is merely the 
means of producing a "suggestible condition," that is 
to say, a condition in which suggestions are more 
readily accepted, and mentative currents more readily 
received — in both cases the tired Will allowing the 
outside influence to enter. 

SUGGESTION EXPLAINED. 

The theories of " Suggestion" are not contrary to 
those of Mentative Energy and Induction, when prop- 
erly understood. The facts of the Suggestionists are 
undoubted, but they make the mistake of ignoring the 
Mental States of the Suggestionist. They think that 
their effects are produced by Suggestion alone, and 
forget the Mental State behind the Suggestion which 
is the real motive force. If their theories be true, 
why is it that two men using the same words of Sug- 
gestion, upon the same subject, produce varying de- 



The Reconciliation 45 

grees of effect? It is because the Mental States or 
Dynamic Mentation of the two men vary in quality 
and degree. 

The Suggestionist thinks that he is merely direct- 
ing his ''Suggestion" by words, etc., toward the sub- 
ject, but all the time he is pouring out a current of 
Mentative Energy which rapidly induces the desired 
mental state in the subject. The best Suggestionists 
are those who have acquired the "Suggestive Man- 
ner" which is developed by the exercise of authorita- 
tive utterances and commands, the physical appear- 
ance, manner, and tones arising from a reflection of 
the Mental State within. I have seen this in the case 
of one of America's most celebrated Suggestionists, 
a prominent physician and scientist, with whom I was 
associated in magazine and other work in the years 
1900-01. I have seen the doctor giving the most pow- 
erful suggestions at one of his classes or clinics — so 
powerful were the emanations of Mentative Energy, J 
or currents of the same, that the members of the class 
could distinctly "feel" the same, and at times could 
almost "see" them. And yet the doctor, who was 
wedded to his particular theories of Suggestion pure 
and simple, after such a wonderful manifestation, 
would calmly inform his class that it "was nothing 
but Suggestion — nothing more to it." And he be- 
lieved it — but hundreds who attended his classes went 
away more firmly convinced than ever that there was 



46 Mental Fascination 

"something more to it," and that there was a cause 
behind his "Suggestions." The theory of Suggestion 
is all right — but what lies back of Suggestion ? What 
gives the Suggestion its force? Of what inner and 
invisible thing is the Suggestion the visible and out- 
ward sign? MENTATIVE ENERGY! 

INHARMONY HARMONIZED. 

And my theory of Mentative Energy and Induction 
may be reconciled with the theories of the later Sug- 
gestionists — including those who still adhere to the 
"sleep" delusion, as well as those who have advanced 
beyond it. And it explains all the phenomena of the 
ancients, with their religious and mystic rites. The 
phenomena of Charming, Fascination, Personal Mag- 
netism, Personal Influence, etc., is all embraced un- 
der the theory advanced in this work, and my larger 
work which preceded it. 

As we proceed with this work we shall see the Men- 
tative Energy, and Mentative Induction in actual 
active operation in these various phases of phenomena, 
but I trust that this chapter will have shown you that 
there is one principle underlying all of the various 
theories and phenomena, and that the facts of Menta- 
tive Energy, and the operation of the same in its phe- 
nomenal incident of Mentative Induction are sufficient 
to include and cover all of the varying manfestations 
of the Force observable under the disguises of the 



The Reconciliation 47 

conflicting theories of the various schools and cults. 
There is but one underlying cause, and that is MEN- 
TATIVE ENERGY. There is but one underlying 
law of the operation of this Force in the direction of 
affecting other minds, and that Law is Mentative In- 
duction, either direct, i. e., by Mentative Currents; or 
indirect, i. e., by Suggestion; or (as is generally the 
case) by both combined. 



CHAPTER V. 

THE RATIONALE OF FASCINATION. 

In this chapter I shall proceed to lay before you the 
"rationale" of Fascination, that is, an exposition of 
the principles of its operation. While the phenomena 
of Fascination extends over a very wide area or field, 
there is still to be found a certain unity of principle of 
operation underlying all of the forms and phases. 
From this point of view, we may speak of the " Science 
of Fascination," as well as of "The Philosophy of 
Fascination." 

THE FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLE. 

The fundamental principle of the operation of the 
Mental Phenomena known as Fascination is found 
in the theory of Mentative Induction, as stated in my 
work on "Mental Magic," and which is briefly stated 
in the first chapter of the present book. This theory, 
you will remember, holds that each Individual Mind 
is a Center of Mentative Energy, and that the Menta- 
tive Energy of an Individual Mind may be, and is, 
transmitted from one person to another by means of 

48 



Rationale of Fascination 49 

Mentative Waves or Currents; (3) that these Menta- 
tive Currents or Waves tend to "induce" in the minds 
of other persons the emotions or feelings existing in 
the Mental States of the person sending out the 
Waves or Currents. 

In this connection, we must also remember that 
there are two Mental Poles, known as the Motive and 
Emotive Poles, respectively. The Motive Pole mani- 
festing as Will-Power, and the Emotive Pole mani- 
festing as Desire-Force. Desire-Force acts in the di- 
rection of drawing, pulling, attracting, luring, coax- 
ing, charming, etc. ; while Will-Power acts in the di- 
rection of compelling, forcing, driving, impelling, 
commanding, demanding, etc. Desire-Force always 
draws its object toward itself; while Will-Power al- 
ways overpowers and compels its object, generally in 
the sense of driving it into action. 

MENTATIVE INDUCTION. 

This Mentative Induction acts along similar lines to 
the "induction" of Electricity and Magnetism, that is, 
it sets up similar states in the object affected. And 
the resemblance is even still further marked when we 
consider that the phenomena of Electricity closely re- 
semble the action of the Will, inasmuch' as both tend 
to drive outward in the form of an Impelling Force; 
and that the phenomena of Magnetism resemble the 



50 Mental Fascination 

action of Desire, inasmuch as both tend to draw in- 
ward in the form of an Attracting Energy. 

AN INTERESTING QUESTION. 

In this connection, however, I would direct the at- 
tention of the student to one fact concerning the ef- 
fect of induced states, which some have failed to 
grasp in my teachings in my work on Mental Magic. 
The matter may be stated by the inquiry of a student 
of the last mentioned work, who inquires, as follows : 
"Please inform me how it is that an induced mental 
state reproduces the original mental state of the Men- 
tator in the following case : a man desires to have an- 
other perform a certain act, and sends a mentative 
current which acts by induction on the mind of the 
second person, setting up an induced mental state 
therein. The second person then performs the act de- 
sired by the first person. Now, if the induced mental 
state was the same as the original one, would not the 
second party simply also desire that the first party . 
should do the act, just as the first party desired that 
the second should do it? But it does not work so, for 
the second party does not so desire, but instead merely 
desires to do just what the first party desired him to 
do — that is he feels within himself a desire to' do that 
which the first party desires shall be done. It seems 
to me that the induced state is really the opposite of 
the original state. Please set me straight on this?" 



i 



Rationale of Fascination 51 

THE ANSWER. 

I am very glad to have the opportunity to "set 
straight" my students on this point. A little careful 
examination will show that both states are similar. 
For instance, A desires that B shall do a certain thing, 
and induces a similar state in B. The induced state 
produces in B a like desire that the things shall be 
done, and he proceeds to do it. No opposite action 
here, is there? The essence of the DESIRE in both 
cases is the same, namely, that the thing shall be done. 
The expression of the feeling of the two persons in 
the case, as (1) "I Desire that You Shall Do," and 
(2) "I Desire to Do," respectively, are merely the 
personal forms of expression, and not the essence of 
the Desire or Feeling. The Desire or Feeling, in its 
real essence is, "I desire this thing done/' And both 
hold the same Desire, A holding the original Desire 
or Feeling, and B the induced Desire or Feeling. 
Think this over a little, until you see the point. 

Induced Will acts in the same way as the above 
mentioned instance of the action of induced Desire. 
Of course, in all cases of the action of Desire the Will 
is also called into operation. In the above cited case 
it works as follows: A feels the Desire to have the 
thing done, and so his Will is called into operation to 
concentrate the Mentative Currents, and to project 
them to a focussed point in the mind of B; then B, 
feeling the induced Desire that the thing shall be done, 



\/. 



52 Mental Fascination 

awakens his Will and does the thing. Do you see this 
also? You had better fix this process firmly in your 
minds, for it is the key to the operation of the princi- 
ple of Fascination, and other Mentative Phenomena. 

MAKING ANOTHER "FEEL-LIKE" DOING. 

Now to get back to the first principle, which is that 
one person may make a second person FEEL LIKE 
DOING a thing that the first person wishes to have 
done. That is the thing in a nutshell. And in the de- 
gree that the second person so feels like doing the 
thing, so will be the degree of Desire and Will in- 
duced in him, and consequently so will be the likeli- 
hood of his actually doing it. You see the matter of 
"FEELING-LIKE" is at the bottom of it all. And 
this being so, it is readily seen that if one is able to 
induce a state of "feeling-like" in another, he has the 
secret of the control of the other person's actions. 
Now this is the BASIS OF MENTAL FASCINA- 
TION! 

Now let us see how this principle works out in a 
case of Mesmerism, or Hypnotism, so called, which 
after all is but a phase of Mental Fascination, gov- 
erned by the above mentioned principle. I prefer the 
term Mesmerism for several reasons, among them be- 
ing the fact that it is a recognition of Mesmer, its dis- 
coverer, or re-discoverer; and also the fact that Hyp- 
notism means "sleep," while Mesmerism covers the 



Rationale of Fascination 53 

whole phenomena, in both its waking or sleep condi- 
tions. 

A CASE OF MESMERISM. 

Well, let us suppose a case of Mesmerism. The 
Mesmerist, whom I will call the "operator," faces the 
"subject." The operator assumes a positive state of 
mind, his Will Power being active and concentrated, 
practice having improved him along these lines. The 
subject naturally assumes a negative mental state, 
opening his Emotive Mental Pole to the influence of 
the Mind or Will of the operator, and allowing his 
Motive Mental Pole to remain quiescent or relaxed. 
That is to say, he opens his Desire mind to the in- 
fluence of the operator, and lets his Will remain in- 
active and relaxed. The operator Desires and Wills 
that the subject be influenced, and the subject agrees, 
consciously or unconsciously, to be so influenced — 
one Wills, and the other "is willing" (which latter 
paradoxical expression means that he is not Willing). 
The operator naturally asserts his positivity, while the 
subject assumes a decided state of Negativity — one 
asserts a Supremacy of Will, and the other submits. I 
would call your attention to the fact that there is no 
physical compulsion, or influence, in the matter — it 
is all a matter of Mentation ! And both parties fully 
recognize the reality of the phenomenon. 



54 Mental Fascination 

THE SILENT CONFLICT. 

The above relative mental state of the two persons 
is apparent in a greater or lesser degree whenever 
two persons meet. One is always stronger Menta- 
tively than the other, and a silent conflict ensues from 
which one or the other emerges a victor — and the re- 
sult is recognized and acquiesced in by both victor and 
vanquished. Ordinarily, however, the distinction is 
not nearly so marked or great as in the case of a 
strong Mesmerist and his negative "subject," the latter 
having probably been trained in Negativity by re- 
peated trials and experiments in private and in public. 
For know you, that even as Positivity may be culti- 
vated, developed and strengthened by practice and 
actual performance, so (alas!) may Negativity be en- 
couraged, developed, and made habitual by a continued 
practice of "giving in" to the Will of another, or 
others, — it is all a matter of habit. 

POSITIVE AND NEGATIVE. 

It will be seen at once that given a subject and 
operator bearing the stated degrees of relative Posi- 
tivity and Negativity, the subject will have a tendency 
to accept and obey the wishes and commands of the 
operator with a minimum degree of resistance. The 
operator will strongly wish the subject to feel in a 
certain way, and to act upon the feeling. To accom- 
plish this result he will concentrate his Desire by his 



Rationale of Fascination 55 

Will, and then direct a combined and focussed at- 
tack on the mind of the subject. He is likely to call 
Suggestion to his aid, in the attack, for by so doing 
he is able to obtain an additional advantage, for a 
Suggestion (as I have stated in my work on Mental 
Magic) is a "Physical Agent inducing Mental States" 
—or "an outward and visible sign of an inward feel- 
ing or mental state," which tends to induce a similar 
feeling in the mind of accepting the Suggestion. 

THE SUGGESTIVE COMMAND. 

The operator gives the subject the "Suggestion by 
Command," and in accordance with the phase of Sug- 
gestion known as "Suggestion through Obedience" 
(see my work on "Mental Magic") the subject obeys. 
It must not be forgotten, however, that the Suggestion 
is merely the outward symbol of the inward mental 
state of the operator, and becomes effective only by 
reason of this fact. The operator throws his intensi- 
fied Desire-force and Will-power into the Suggestion, 
and receives an effect along the line of the three-fold 
activity. With his Will he produces a dual effect, 
i. e., (1) he captivates the Desire of the subject, and 
induces in it the desired "feeling-like" state; (2) he 
takes captive the Will of the subject, and subjugates it 
to his own. And, at the same time, by his Desire he 
also produces a dual effect, i. e., (1) he induces a 
similar desire in the mind of the subject by mentative- 



56 Mental Fascination 

waves, or currents, and (2) he allures, or seduces the 
Will of the subject by the strength of his Desire. The 
result of this "combined attack" causes the mind of the 
subject to act as follows, which adds a third dual- 
effect to the operation, i. e., (1) the subject's Desire 
(being induced as stated by the operator) acts to in- 
fluence his own Will, thus making the latter fall in 
with the induced Desire; (2) the subject's Will (con- 
trolled as stated by the operator) acts upon his own 
Desire, thus making the latter fall in with the seduced 
Will. 

It must be remembered that the three mental opera- 
tions above mentioned are concurrent, that is, they act 
at the same time, and exercise joint action and control 
upon the mind of the subject. And neither the opera- 
tor nor the subject are necessarily conscious of there 
being three dual-actions under way. The operator 
simply Desires and Wills, with or without Sugges- 
tion; while the subject simply "feels-like" (as before 
stated) and accepts the Suggestion if one is given, 
without recognizing the various mental operations 
going on to produce the "feeling-like." The detailed 
explanation may make the operation seem complicated 
— while in reality it appears to both the operator and 
subject as quite a simple matter, indeed. 

THE "DAY-DREAM STATE." 

The above process is the same, whether the operator 
merely produces the simplest result upon the subject, 



Rationale of Fascination 57 

or whether he secures the most remarkable and start- 
ling exhibitions of the control of one mind by another. 
The principle of operation is the same in all cases. 
With sleep, or without sleep, it is the same. In fact, 
as we shall see, the very "sleep" condition is produced 
just as are the other effects, and its production merely 
tends to produce a "day-dream" state in the subject, 
and thus makes him act in a day-dreamlike manner, 
with appropriate illusions. Sleep phenomena are 
merely one of the "side-issues" of Mesmerism, when 
the true principle is understood. 

HABIT AND REPETITION. 

In our consideration of the operation of Mesmerism 
we must not forget the part that habit and repetition 
play in the matter. For instance, the operator may be 
able to produce only the simplest effects at first trial ; 
but at each subsequent trial, in which he gains more 
and more control over the subject, and a greater ac- 
quiescence and degree of obedience, he is able to ob- 
tain a still more marked effect. If you will read the 
remarks on "Suggestion by Repetition" in my work 
on "Mental Magic" (page 120) you will realize the 
awful force of repetition and habit, as well as the 
power of repeated statement. This psychological fact 
is like the operation of the wedge — admit the thin edge, 
and each additional blow drives it further in. This 
works along the lines of both good and evil, remember 



/ 



58 Mental Fascination 

— -the wise use it to their own strengthening, while the 
foolish allow it to be their undoing. Beware of the 
thin edge of the wedge of undesirable habits of thought 
and action. 

A PSYCHOLOGICAL LAW. 

The Mesmerist understands well, often too well, the 
nature and results of the above mentioned psychologi- 
cal law. He has found out by experience that although 
it may be difficult to control a subject the first time, 
it will be easier the next; and so on and on, until 
perfect control is obtained. And, knowing this, he 
bends his endeavors to inserting the very thinnest 
edge of the wedge, understanding that in this he has 
his hardest task before him. And, alas, how many of 
us know that this same principle is in operation in 
every day life, although seemingly having nothing to 
do with Mesmerism. How many of us are able to 
regret the day of the entry of the thin edge of the 
wedge. 

Another point to be remembered is that the subject 
who is under a fair degree of control does not feel as 
if he were obeying the commands or wishes of the 
operator alone. That is, not in the main. It is true 
that he instinctively obeys the command of the Sug- 
gestion, just as a horse quickens his gait when spoken 
to, or a soldier acts quickly in obedience to orders, 
etc., etc. But the motive for the action, or feeling, 



Rationale of Fascination 59 

seems to come from within himself to a great degree. 
It has the force and effect of an instinctive action pro- 
ceeding along sub-conscious lines. He seems to want 
to do the thing of his own accord. This is the dan- 
gerous feature. 

This, then, in a general way, is the rationale of 
Mental Fascination as shown in its phase of Mes- 
merism, and its corresponding exhibitions along less 
pronounced lines. If you will acquaint yourselves with 
these principles of operation, you will have a grasp on 
the whole subject. In our next chapter we shall have 
a view of the Mental States of Operator and Subject, 
which will throw additional light upon the subject 
before us. 



CHAPTER VI. 

IMPRESSIONABILITY. 

In the last chapter I laid before you an exposition 
of the principles of the operation of Mental Fascina- 
tion, particularly in its phases of Mesmerism. The 
student who has followed what I have said therein has 
seen that there must, of necessity, be a marked differ- 
ence in the degree of Impressionability, or Receptivity 
to Mentative Induction, manifested by the operator and 
subject respectively in order that the pronounced phe- 
nomena may be manifested. But this difference of 
degree of Impressionability is manifested by all men 
and women. Between the one extreme point in the 
scale of Impressionability to the other extreme there 
are many degrees — and each person has his or her 
own degree, subject, of course, to change by develop- 
ment. 

MAGNETIC POSITIVITY. 

I would like to quote from my work on "Mental 
Magic," illustrating this last mentioned point. I have 
said therein : "I do not mean that the degree of Mag- 
netic Positivity is fixed permanently in either person, 

60 



Impressionability 61 

for the contrary is the case. One of the persons, who 
is really the stronger, usually, may be weaker at that 
particular moment, owing to his Will being fatigued, 
or by reason of his having relaxed his Will-Power, as 
is often the case. And in such case the defeated one 
may be the victor at the last encounter, or may even 
rally his energies a moment later, and thus turn the 
tables. One may have a strong Will in moments of P 
activity, and yet in moments of passivity he may relax 
it very much. And this is a still more important fact: 
one may so increase his Will-Power that he will be 
able to completely dominate those who formerly over- 
mastered, and even over-awed, him. All of us know 
of instances of this kind in our own personal ex- 
perience." 

THE TWO EXTREMES. 

At the extreme point of Mentative Positivity are the 
wonderfully strong-willed men who are "natural 
leaders" and managers. At the extreme Negative 
Mentative point are those people who are moved by 
every passing suggestion or mental current with which 
they may come in contact — those impressionable people 
who seem to live in the emotional plane of their being, 
and who are always open to outside influences, and are 
like weather-cocks moved by every passing breeze. 
These people are really the reflection of the thoughts, 
desires and wills of others — the last person who catches 



62 Mental Fascination 

their attention being the "right one" to follow. You 
all know the type, don't you? 

I do not mean by this that only persons naturally 
weak-willed may be mesmerized. But I do say that 
when strong-willed people allow themselves to be mes- 
merized they must relax their Wills and become 
passive or negative to the operator, else there will be 
no result gained. A strong-willed man may volun- 
tarily relax and become negative in order to be mes- 
merized. I have seen this done in many cases, 
although I have always urged against it, for I con- 
sider it inadvisable for one to surrender his Will in 
this way, even for the purpose of scientific investiga- 
tion. I am sure that I would not do so myself, and 
therefore I cannot approve of the practice on the part 
of others. 

THE ^ARTISTIC TEMPERAMENT." 

Then again, I have known people of a highly devel- 
oped "artistic temperament," such as actors, poets, 
artists, writers, and others who possessed strong Wills, 
to allow themselves to become very "impressionable" 
by reason of their active imaginations. That is to 
say, they would allow themselves to be so carried away 
with the idea of being impressed that they would 
"throw themselves into the part" of the mesmerized 
subject, and actually mesmerize themselves, although 
allowing the operator to take the credit. This last 



Impressionability 63 

explanation will throw light on a phase of the phe- 
nomena that apparently presents an exception to the 
rule, but which when viewed in the light of the above 
explanation, may be seen to come strictly within the 
rule of Positivity and Negativity. 

a mesmerist's trick. 

Public performers of mesmerism, when they meet 
with an imaginative subject whose will is too strong 
to subdue, often begin to bend their efforts toward 
arousing the imagination of the person and thus caus- 
ing him to become passive and in a subjective condi- 
tion of "acting out" the part suggested by the opera- 
tor. In such cases there is no "conflict of wills" what- 
ever, but, on the contrary, the subject wills to act out 
the part and becomes the partner of the mesmerist, in- 
stead of his opponent. The subject in such cases mes- 
merizes himself, and voluntarily allows himself to be 
led by the suggestions of the operator so long as the 
suggestions are not contrary to the subject's own in- 
terests. This "actor instinct" is very strong in some 
people, and this self-mesmerism is far more common 
than people imagine. It is seen on the stage, and 
among speakers and writers. 

MESMERIC SUBJECTS. 

Even many of the best mesmeric subjects who travel 
around with the professional mesmerists are of this 



64 Mental Fascination 

last mentioned class to a certain degree. They are 
able to throw themselves into the parts, and play them 
well, so long as they are not adversely affected thereby. 
They are far different beings- from the weak-willed, 
flabby creatures that are so often seen following 
around after the professional mesmerists. The imagi- 
native "professional subject" is alive to his own in- 
terests, and as a somewhat cynical friend of mine, 
who had made a close study of the subject, once said, 
even the most obedient subject of this class would 
utterly fail to act upon the suggestion of his powerful 
operator to effect that the subject consent to a reduc- 
tion of his weekly wages paid by the operator — even 
though the "deep stage" of hypnotic sleep be pro- 
duced. 

"don't surrender your will/' 

But I consider that even this imaginative class of 
subjects are unwise in allowing themselves to be 
guided and governed by the suggestions and com- 
mands of any operator, for I believe that even such a 
habit is injurious to the Will. The Will is a precious 
thing and should not be prostituted in this way. I 
cannot urge this too strongly upon my students. I 
say to them : "Surrender your Will into no one's \J 
keeping." Regard it as a woman should her Virtue, 
and allow no one to take liberties with it. 



Impressionability 65 

WHO CAN EXERT FASCINATION? 

The average person possessing self-confidence and 
force can, and does, exert Mental Fascination over 
others with whom he comes in contact, although it 
requires a developed Will to become an expert in this 
line of mental work. Besides this, there is undoubt- 
edly a certain "knack" and technique about the work, 
which is acquired by practice, although some seem to 
have it considerably developed naturally. There are 
geniuses in Fascination as well as in art — and there 
are others who have acquired the mastery in both by 
careful practice and determination. 

THE REQUISITE FOR FASCINATION. 

In considering the qualities that go to make up the 
person in whom Mental Fascination is likely to be 
strongly developed, I may mention the following : 

(1) Physical Well-Being; for there is a certain 
strength about a man or woman in strong, robust 
health, that must be taken into consideration. It is 
true that some persons not physically well, but un- 
healthy, have exercised strong powers of Fascination, 
but this was in spite of their lack of physical health, 
and owing to a strong Will which allowed them to 
master even this obstacle. But, all else being equal, 
there is a power about a strong, healthy, vigorous per- 
son that makes itself felt. 

(2) Belief in One's Self; for without this no one 



66 Mental Fascination 

manifests Positivity. Believe in your own power and 
ability, and you impress others with the same belief. 
Confidence is contagious. Cultivate the "I Can and I 
Will." 

(3) Poise; for the calm, well-poised, imperturbable 
man has an enormous advantage over one lacking these 
qualities. The man who meets any emergency with- 
out "losing his head" has something about him that 
makes him looked up to as a natural leader — he has 
one of the qualities of Positivity. Cultivate the Calm, 
Masterful mood. 

(4) Fearlessness; for Fear is the most negative 
emotion in the being of man. Fearlessness is a most 
Positive quality, just as Fear is the most Negative. 
Cultivate the "I Do— I Dare." 

(5) Concentration; for this "one-pointedness" 
focuses the Will-Power upon the object. Do one 
thing at a time, and do it with all the power that 
there is in you. 

(6) Fixity of Purpose; for you must learn to 
know what you want to do, and then "stick to it" 
until it is done. Cultivate the Bull-dog quality — it is 
needed. 

To those who recognize the need of the above 
mentioned qualities, but who lack them, I would recom- 
mend the careful study and determined application 
of the principles of "Mental Architecture," as stated 
in my Seventh Lesson in my work on "Mental Magic" 



Impressionability 67 

in which the matter is gone into in detail, with exer- 
cises, etc. 

NONSENSE EXPOSED. 

There has been much nonsense written about "who 
make good subjects," etc., in works upon Mesmerism, 
Hypnotism, etc., and many amusing rules for the de- 
termination of the degree of impressionability have 
been given by many writers. Some say that brunettes 
are the most impressionable, while others assert that 
blondes yield more readily, etc., etc.; but the experi- 
enced investigator laughs at such distinctions. Some 
consider that women make the best subjects, while 
others assert that men really are more readily in- 
fluenced. My own opinion is that the percentage is 
about the same in both sexes. Then, again, one must 
remember that the degrees of "impressionability" are 
relative. For instance, A may be positive to B, while 
B may be positive to C, and so on to the end of the 
alphabet. And, using the same illustration, M is nega- 
tive to L, though positive to N. Do you see this ? 

A LIE NAILED. 

Some writers have tried to make people believe 
that only "strong-minded" people may be mesmerized, 
and give as a proof thereof the fact that idiots and 
insane people are almost immune from hypnotic and 
mesmeric influence. This is a favorite argument of 



68 Mental Fascination 

the professional hypnotists, who use it in order to put 
at ease their subjects, or possible subjects, who might 
not wish to appear as " weak-minded" people. The 
truth is that the reason that the above classes are ex- 
empt is because (i) the idiots have little or no power 
of attention, and are like mere machines, and conse- 
quently cannot be induced to pay attention long enough 
to be mesmerized, but all advanced students of Mental 
Influence know that idiots, as well as animals may be 
influenced by Mental Vibrations, or Mental Waves, 
etc., by "treatments"; (2) insane people are usually 
carried away with a "fixed idea," or delusion, and are, 
in fact, practically in a state akin to that produced by 
hypnotic or mesmeric process to a marked degree. 
Their minds are centered on the delusion and cannot 
be taken off it. If the attraction could be removed 
the patient would no longer be insane; and although 
the "sleep condition" cannot well be induced in insane 
patients, still the best authorities know that such peo- 
ple often yield to strong suggestions, and mental treat- 
ments, to a certain degree, so that the rule does not 
always hold. 

IMPRESSIONABLE PEOPLE. 

The class of people who yield most readily to Mes- 
meric influence (outside of the sub-class of imagina- 
ry tive people mentioned a few pages further back) are 
those who have not manifested their Will. Determina- 



Impressionability 69 

tion and Self-Reliance very much. People who have 
led a life in which implicit obedience, or reliance, upon 
others, have been cultivated — these are the people who 
are most impressionable. They have not used their 
Wills, and are more readily ruled by the Wills of 
others, or through their Emotions. As I have said in 
my larger work: "The degree of response to Sug- 
gestion by Command is to be observed in the highest 1 / 
degree among those who have always depended upon 
others for orders, or instruction, and have not had 
to use their own wits and resources in life. Un- 
skilled laborers, and the sons of rich men who have 
had some one to think for them, often belong to this 
class. These people seem to want someone else to 
do their thinking for them, even in the smallest event 
of their lives, and are most impressionable along the 
proper lines. Then the degree of Positivity rises as 
we consider the people who have had to do things for 
themselves, and who have not depended so much upon 
others. Positivity is the greatest among people who 
have had the ordering of others to do, or who have 
had to depend upon their own resources, and their 
own wits, in getting through life. The men of 
marked Initiative have scarcely a trace of this form of 
suggestibility. 'Initiative,' you know, is a term for 
'doing things without being told' — using one's own 
wits, and resources, and WILL." The above applies 
equally to the subject of "impressionability" to mes- 



jo Mental Fascination 

meric influence. And what does it all mean when it is 
"boiled down"? Just this — that the degree of "im- 
pressionability" depends upon the degree of the lack 
of Will Development. The word WILL is the key- 
note! And this in spite of all the talk, twaddle and 
nonsense written and spoken by those who are inter- 
ested in having the people appreciate "the wonderful 
virtue ( ?) of Hypnotism." 

THE 

The reason that mobs allow themselves to be in- 
fluenced is because they surrender their Individuality, 
and Individual Will, and allow it to become merged 
with the Wills of others, until a "mob Will" is created, 
which represents the average of the crowd, the weaker 
wills diluting the strength of the whole. When this 
mess of mingled and weakened will is properly mixed 
it remains in a dazed and excited condition until some 
Individual springs to the front — some leader of men 
who has held on to his Individual Will — and impresses 
his Will upon the more negative Will of the crowd, 
and the mob accepts his suggestions and follows like 
sheep, or mesmerized subjects, and does his bidding 
until some other leader catches its attention and in- 
terest. 

EMOTIONABILITY. 

There is another phase of mentality that has it's 
bearing upon the degree of impressionability. I refer 



Impressionability ji 

to the quality known as "emotionability." An emo- 
tional person is one who more readily throws off the 
influence of his own Will and Reason and gives him- 
self up to the play of the emotional side of his nature. 
Such a person is more impressionable than one who 
is not so emotional, but whose Will is really no 
stronger. The reason is that by his mental habits 
he has accustomed himself to "open up" his Emotive 
Pole of Mentality to outside influences and allowing 
his Motive Pole to remain inactive. He allows his 
"feelings" to rule him, instead of ruling his feelings — 
he allows his Emotional Nature to usurp the throne 
of his Will, the latter being relegated to second place. 
And the consequence is that his Emotive nature has 
become more open to unresisted, outside influences 
and impressions and responds more readily to the 
same — it has acquired the "impressionable" habit. Do 
you see? This last explanation will throw some light 
on the fact that certain races of people are far more 
"impressionable" than others — they are more Emo- 
tiona 1 that's all. 

WHO IS AN "IMPRESSIONABLE"? 

In the following chapters I shall use the term "im- 
pressionable" as a noun, designating a person who is 
sufficiently impressionable to respond to the influence 
of a mesmerist or hypnotist to a greater or lesser de- 
gree. These "impressionables" are comparatively 



72 Mental Fascination 

easily impressed by the Mentative Force, and Sugges- 
tions of the Experimenter along these lines. Please 
remember the sense in which I shall use the term. 
Later on I shall use the term "hyper-impressionable" 
as a noun, indicating a person excessively, or abnor- 
mally impressible by mesmeric influence. The latter 
class will be further described in the proper place in 
the book. 

Let me give you a fanciful illustration of the sub- 
ject of impressionability. It will form the subject 
of our next chapter, which will be entitled "The Fable 
of the Mentative Couple." It will explain not only 
the matter of response to mesmeric influence, but will 
also throw light on the exercise of Personal Mental 
Influence that is going on around us in everyday life, 
all the time, everywhere. You will have a much 
clearer idea of the matter after reading this Fable — and 
you will also be much more on your guard because 
of the lesson taught therein. Do not fail to read it 
carefully and seek for the secret contained within its 
lines. 



CHAPTER VII. 

THE FABLE OF THE MENTATIVE COUPLE. 

Once upon a time there lived in the land of Mental- 
vania, in a wonderful building called The Mentative 
Castle, a Man arid a Woman, called "The Mentative 
Couple." They were Happy though Married. They 
Lived in Harmony, because they were Useful to One 
Another, and neither was complete without the pres- 
ence of the Other — and neither did his or her Best 
Work, unless the Other was present and assisting. 

VOLOS AND EMOTIONE. 

Well, now, the Man was called "Volos" (which is 
the same as the English name "Will"), and the 
Woman was called "Emotione," which in the language 
of that country meant something like a combination of 
Emotion, Desire and Imagination. 

THE TWO NATURES. 

Now, the Chronicles inform us that these Two Peo- 
ple had natures entirely different from each other, as 
has been said. We are told that Volos was of a stern, 

73 



74 Mental Fascination 

inflexible, strong, positive nature; apt to stick to a 
thing once begun ; full of the "will-to-live" and "vital- 
ity;" full of determination and spirit with a strong 
dash of the "let-me-alone" and "get out of my way" 
in his make-up; with a taste for meeting difficulties 
and overcoming obstacles; with a goodly degree of 
habit of reaching out and taking hold of what Erao- 
tione wanted and needed; and a powerful lot of Self 
Respect and Self Reliance in him. He was apt to 
be firm although his firmness was not the stubborn- 
ness of the mule, and his general keynote was Strengths 
He was a good warrior and defender of his castle. 
But Emotione was of an entirely different type, tem- 
perament, and character. She was most impression- 
able, imaginative, emotional, credulous, fanciful, full 
of desire, curious, sympathetic and easily persuaded. 
While Volos was all Willing and Thinking, Emotione 
was all Feeling. 

FIRE AND WATER. 

Volos was a Strong Character, but lacked certain 
qualities that make for Success — but these qualities 
Emotione possessed, and she supplied the deficiency 
in Volos. Volos had to "figure out" everything* while 
Emotione had Intuition, and jumped at a conclusion 
in a way remarkable to Volos, who couldn't under- 
stand the process at all. When he would ask Emo- 
tione for an explanation,, she would say, lightly, "Oh, 



Fable of the Mentative Couple 75 

just because!" which answer would often provoke 
profane and irreverent discourse on the part of Volos. 
But, nevertheless, he learned to respect these "be- 
causes" of Emotione, and found that they helped him 
in Jiis business. Emotione would dream out things, 
and see things a long way ahead, and then Volos 
would proceed to put these plans into operation. Vo- 
los couldn't see very far ahead of his nose, while Emo- 
tione could see miles beyond, and years ahead. And 
besides this faculty of Mental Imagery that came in 
so useful in Volos' business, Emotione also possessed 
a burning and ardent Desire for Things, which she 
managed to communicate to Volos, thereby causing 
him to get out and Do Things that otherwise he would 
never have dreamed of doing. Emotione was like Fire, 
and Volos like Water. The Water would hold the 
Fire in check, but at the same time the Fire would 
heat up the Water and the result would be the Steam 
of Action. And, so, you see these two — this Menta- 
tive Couple — formed a fine co-partnership, and pros- 
pered mightily. 

ENTER THE TEMPTER. 

But, alas! the Tempter entered Eden — and the At- 
tractive Stranger meandered in the direction of the 
Mentative Castle, and when he reached there trouble 
occurred. And this is what happened: 



j6 Mental Fascination 

THE UNGUARDED CASTLE. 

One day Volos was absent from the Castle, being 
engaged in some arduous enterprise. And conse- 
quently the Castle was Unguarded. Volos had pro- 
vided against this by instructing Emotione that she 
was to keep the Castle Gate closed tight, when he was 
away from home, and never to gaze without in his 
absence, for there was some mysterious danger lurking 
without when he was away. Emotione had faithfully 
followed the directions of her liege lord, although her 
womanly curiosity was piqued thereat. Many the 
time she had heard strange knockings at the Castle 
Gate, but she heeded them not, and even refrained 
from looking out of the little peep-hole in the Gate — 
though this last was much against her inclination, for 
she could see no harm in "J ust Looking." 

THE FASCINATING STRANGER. 

But, to return to our tale, this particular day when 
Volos was absent from Home, her curiosity was too 
much for Emotione when she heard the strange 
knockings at the Gate. And, breaking her rule, she 
ventured to peep without. Looking down she saw a 
most attractive stranger, with a fascinating smile on 
his lips. He looked almost as strong as Volos, but 
he seemed to have a Dash of the Woman in him, be- 
sides. He had the Strength, but also the Charm that 
Emotione recognized as being a part of her own na- 



Fable of the Mentative Couple yj 

ture. "Ah," sighed Emotione, "here is a Man who 
can Understand me." The Fascinating Stranger 
smiled sweetly, and looking her in the eyes, master- 
fully asked to be admitted. "No, no," replied Emo- 
tione, "I cannot let you in, for Volos told me not to." 
"Ah, fair lady," said the Stranger softly, "Volos means 
all right, but he is rather old-fogyish, and behind the 
times. He does not 'Understand,' as do you and I. 
Pray, let me in." And, like Mother Eve, Emotione 
took the bait. 

"when the cat's away," etc. 

Well, to make a long story short, when Volos came 
home he found that Emotione had subscribed to a 
set of "Villeveaux Modern Art," a beautiful work is- 
sued by the De Luxe Bros, of Fifth Avenue, to be is- 
sued in 824 weekly parts, at the nominal price of $5 
a part — 739 parts of which were already out, and 
would be Delivered Shortly. She had also given a 
number of Side Orders for Manifold Wares, which 
had dazzled her untrained and unguarded Fancy. 
Volos cried aloud to the Gods of his Land — but it was 
too late, the contracts had been signed. 

WORSE AND MORE OF IT. 

But, that was but the beginning. Volos did not un- 
derstand just what was the matter, and contented 
himself with scolding Emotione, whereat she wept 



78 Mental Fascination 

bitterly. But the poison went on with its deadly 
work. And when Volos again was absent from home, 
the habit reasserted itself, and when the Fascinating 
Stranger again called at the Castle, he was admitted. 
And when Volos returned, he found the Castle fur- 
nished from dungeon to watch-tower with costly rugs, 
and furniture, and various other articles, bought from 
"Morganstern's Popular Installment House," at $1,000 
down and $100 per week. He also found that the 
Castle had been Lightning-Rodded from ground to 
turret, on each wing, tower, and annex; and that 
Notes, containing a law-proof, judgment-confessed 
clause, had been given in exchange therefor. And 
then Volos swore by the Beard of Mars, the War-God, 
that he would have no more of this — He would Re- 
main at Home thereafter And he Did. 

But the Subtle Stranger was Onto the Game, in all 
of its Details. And this is how he Played it on Volos, 
even though the latter Remained at Home. 

HOW VOLOS MADE A MISTAKE. 

A few days after Volos had determined to Remain 
at Home, there came a band of mountebanks, singing, 
dancing, and performing juggling tricks. Volos sat 
on the great stone beside the open Castle Gate, and his 
Attention was attracted by the sounds and sights. 
Faster the dancers whirled — louder beat the drums — 
sweeter grew the singing — more bewildering grew the 



Fable of the Mentative Couple 79 

feats of jugglery — until poor Volos forgot all about 
the open Castle Gate, so rapt was he at the strange 
sights, sounds, dances, and feats of jugglery. Then 
one of the mountebank gang (who was really the At- 
tractive Stranger disguised in motley array) slipped, 
unseen, past Volos, and in a moment was engaged in 
eager conversation with the impressionable Emotione. 

Volos watched the crowd until it moved away, and 
then entering the Castle, and closing the Gate behind 
him, was confronted by Emotione, in tears, for she 
dreaded the coming storm. "Alack a-day, woe is me," 
she cried, "I am again in trouble, O, Volos, my liege 
lord! I have just ordered from the Fascinating 
Stranger, who slipped past you at the Gate, a Baby- 
Grand, Self-playing, Automatic, Liquid-Air valved, 
Radium Carburetter, Harpsichord, upon which I may 
play for you all classes of Music, ranging from Vog- 
ner's G otter dammerung to the popular rag-time air 
entitled "Kiss Yo' Babe Good-Bye!" with feeling, 
depth of expression, and soulful understanding, ac- 
cording to the words of the Fascinating Stranger who 
took my order." 

"Gadzooks !" ejaculated Volos, "Fain would I cry 
aloud the name of that production of Vogner's just 
mentioned by thee. And by my Halidom, e'en shalt 
thou soon be singing to me the words of that rag- 
time melody just quoted by thy false red lips ! Zounds ! 
Of a Truth I have been Stung Again by that Fasci- 



80 Mental Fascination 

nating Stranger. I must gaze no more upon these 
Fleeting Scenes of Merriment and Amazement, lest I 
be again decorated with the Asses' Ears. Aha! 
Volos is himself again, and the next time the Fascinat- 
ing Stranger appears upon the scene, he shall be smit- 
ten hip and thigh with my trusty battle-axe, and my 
snickersee shall pierce his foul carcass!" 

But, alas ! even once more was poor Volos deceived 
and trifled with — once more was poor Emotione Fas- 
cinated by the Stranger. And it came about in this 
way. 

HIS LAST UNDOING. 

On the day of his last undoing, Volos sat on the 
open step, in front of the narrowly opened Castle 
Door. "No man shall pass me now," cried he. But 
Fate willed otherwise. For as he sat there, there ap- 
proached many people who took seat upon the steps 
before the gate, and engaged Volos in long heated, 
and wearisome discourses regarding the Outlook for 
the Crops ; the Presidential Campaign ; the Japanese 
Question; Race Suicide; the New Theology; How 
Old was Ann; the Problem of the Final Outcome of 
the Collision between the Irresistible Force and the 
Immovable Body; the Canals on Mars; what Roose- 
velt Will Do when his Term expires ; and many other 
weighty, interesting, and fascinating topics of general 
interest. Most agreeable were these visitors, and most 



Fable of the Mentative Couple 81 

considerate of Volos' feelings were they. And al- 
though they seemed to differ from him at the begin- 
ning of each argument, still they courteously allowed 
him to convince them inch by inch, until they finally 
acknowledged that he was Invincible in Argument, 
and Invulnerable in Logic. " Tis passing Strange/' 
quoth Volos, "but nevertheless 'tis true — that / al- 
ways find myself on the Right Side of Every Question. 
And the wonder grows when they all admit it in the 
end. Verily, am I developing into a Wise Guy!" 

THE LAST STRAW. 

And, pondering thus, he fell sweetly asleep from the 
rigor of the disputes; the flattering attentions shown 
him ; the joy of the victory ; and the exceeding amount 
of attention and interest he had expended, for Human 
Nature has its limitations, even in the case of one so 
Strong as Volos. And while he slumbered, the Fas- 
cinating Stranger (who was really the leader of the 
Argumentative Visiting Committee), crept into the 
house and unloaded upon Emotione a choice collec- 
tion of Gilt-edged Mining Stock (pure gilt, all the 
way through in fact) ; a bunch of Flying-Machine 
Bonds, and a 5,000 Donkey-Power, Vestibuled, Draw- 
ing Room, Observation Car, Automobile called the 
"Yellow Peril." And when Volos discovered what 
had happened he wept aloud, crying bitterly, "Odds- 
bones ; S'death — of a cert am I the Baron E. Z. Mark." 



82 Mental Fascination 

And thereupon he sent for the Wise Man who dwelt 
in the next barony. 

THE WISE MAN CALLED IN. 

The Wise Man eame, and after hearing the story 
said: "My children, yours is a sad case, but matters 
may be adjusted without a visit to Sioux Falls, and 
without the raising of the question of Alimony. The 
trouble is as follows : 

VOLOS WITHOUT EMOTIONE. 

"Volos, without Emotione, has no Desire or incen- 
tive to Do Things. He has no wants to satisfy, and 
therefore Does Nothing. He needs Emotione to sup- 
ply the Desire. And without her he has no Feeling — 
he is nothing but a hard-shell clam. Therefore he 
needs her to supply the Feeling, for verily, and of a 
truth, Feeling is the spice of Life. And without her 
he has no Imagination, and cannot see beyond the end 
of his nose — and what is life without Imagination? 
Gadzooks, one might as well be a mummy! 

EMOTIONE WITHOUT VOLOS. 

"And on the other hand, Emotione without .Volos, 
is a consuming fire of Desire; an unrestrained Imagi- 
nation ; an Intuitive Faculty degenerated into the bas- 
est superstition, most deplorable credulity, and the 
idlest Fancy. Volos has no Desire, Emotion, or Imag- 



Fable of the Mentative Couple 83 

ination of his own — and Emotione has no Will of her 
own. 

IN UNION IS THERE STRENGTH. 

"Verily, cannot it be seen by all that this Couple 
needs One Another the worst way? Each, alone, is 
but an Incomplete Half. United they stand — divided 
they Fall. In Union alone is there Strength for Them. 

THE DANGER OF SEPARATION. 

"And more than this, each, without the other, falls 
a prey to the wiles of some Fascinating Stranger. We 
have seen how Emotione was fascinated and controlled 
by the Will of the Stranger who gained access to the 
Castle. But I have also seen (by my Magic Art) 
that when Volos was away from home on 'important 
business,' without having Emotione along to keep 
him straight, he fell a victim to the wiles of the De- 
sire and Imagination of a Fair Stranger across the 
river, and did her bidding, and used his Will to per- 
form her tasks, instead of those desired by his own 
Emotione. Verily, art these people quits with one 
another and should now begin over again. True it is 
that Harmony will be theirs only when they Are To- 
gether. 

THE SECRET OF THE UNDOING. 

"And this is the Secret of the undoing of Emo- 
tione. Without the Will of Volos to protect her, di- 



84 ' Mental Fascination 

rect her, and advise her, Emotione allowed her De- 
sire, Imagination, and Emotion to run wild and un- 
restrained. And so she became so impressionable as to 
allow herself to be mastered by the Will of the 
Stranger, who took advantage of the same and gath- 
ered to himself many Choice Orders for Things. And 
even when Volos sat by the door watching the play- 
ers, dancers, and jugglers, his ATTENTION was so 
centered on what he saw, that the Fascinating Stranger 
slipped through the Gate — it was even as if Volos had 
been absent from Home. And, again, when Volos al- 
lowed himself to become engaged in weighty dis- 
course with the Visiting Committee, and used up his 
Energy and Force in Argument and Dispute with them 
— and when he permitted himself to be "jollied" into 
a false security by these United Brethren of the Blar- 
ney-Stone — he relaxed his Vigilance, and allowed 
himself to become tired, drowsy and sleepy, and so fell 
into a doze at his post, and the Stranger again entered 
and took Emotione's Orders for Goods. 

THE WISE MAN'S REMEDY. 

"And this then is the Remedy (as my successor, 
Lawson of Boston, will say in the centuries to follow) 
—this is THE REMEDY. Each person of this Men- 
tative Couple must stick close to the other. Volos 
must have no 'important business' across the river, 
which will allow Emotione to be without a protector 



Fable of the Mentative Couple 85 

and advisor. And Emotione must stick close to 
Volos, and satisfy her curiosity, imagination, emotion, 
and desire, by setting him to work out things for her 
— to do things dreamed of by her — to get her things 
she desires — to express the things felt by her. This 
is the Secret of Success, dear Mentative Couple — Mu- 
tual Work by Desire and Will, working in Unison and 
Harmony — each faithful to the other — each guarding 
the other from the Fascinating Strangers that beset 
each when separated. Now, then Children, GET TO 
WORK !" 

And saying this, the Wise Man vanished from sight. 

THE MORAL. 

And the Moral of this Fable of The Mentative 
Couple is this: That the Mind of every Man and 
Woman is a Mentative Castle, wherein dwells a Volos 
and an Emotione. And what happened to the Couple 
in the Fable, may happen, and does happen, to many 
in everyday life. The Will, straying from home, and 
paying attention to other attractions leaves the Castle 
unguarded, and the Fascinating Stranger enters. And, 
again, the Will has its Attention distracted by passing 
objects of interest, and forgets the Castle Door. And 
again, the Will allows itself to be fatigued, tired, and 
jollied by useless argument, and talk, and cogitation, 
at the instigation of the Designing Fascinating 
Stranger, and the latter slips past the Gate. And in 



86 Mental Fascination 

each case, inside the Gate is Emotione unprotected, 
and innocent, true to her own nature, credulous, imag- 
inative, fanciful, desireful, and emotional — is it any 
wonder that she "orders goods" that are not wanted 
by the family ? And the Remedy of the Wise Man as 
given to the Mentative Couple may be, and should be, 
applied by every Man and Woman in his or her Men- 
tal Castle. And this then is the Moral of the Fable. 



CHAPTER VIII. 

EXPERIMENTAL FASCINATION. 

In this work I shall give the student an idea of the 
methods of conducting experimental work in that 
phase of Fascination which has been called "Mental 
Impression," etc., following the lines of the best in- 
vestigators and experimenters in America and Europe. 
My reason for so doing is that the student may have a 
thorough idea of the practical work, even though he 
may not wish to conduct such experiments in person. 
I think that everyone should be made acquainted with 
these things as a matter of knowledge, and also for 
purposes of the self-protection which arises from an 
understanding of the subject. 

STARTLING PHENOMENA EXPLAINED. 

I also desire to satisfy the careful student and in- 
vestigator that the feats, tests and phenomena which 
have heretofore been regarded by the general public 
as inseparably connected with mesmerism, hypnotism 
and "sleep-conditions" may be reproduced without 
the aid of "sleep-conditions," and without the hocus- 

87 



88 Mental Fascination 

pocus of the public performer. The entire phenomena 
of mesmerism, hypnotism, etc., may be produced by 
simple, scientific methods along the line of Mental 
Fascination, by means of Mentative Induction, with- 
out any attempt to produce "sleep" as a necessary 
precedent condition. When this matter is thoroughly 
understood by the public the glamor and sensational- 
ism of public mesmeric and hypnotic performances 
will vanish, and the subject will receive the scientific 
consideration that it merits. But at the same time 
people will begin to realize the mighty power of the 
Mental Influence that is capable of producing such 
startling manifestations in a waking state, and will 
seek to guard themselves against the abuse of the 
power. 

HYPNOTIC PERFORMANCES CONDEMNED. 

It should be almost unnecessary for me to add that 
I have no sympathy with the public performances of 
that phase of Mental Impression known as "Hyp- 
notism, Mesmerism," etc., in which subjects are made 
to go through all sorts of foolish and absurd perform- 
ances. Outside of my objection to people surrender- 
ing their Will to another in this way I feel that. such 
exhibitions are lacking in feeling, good taste and often 
in decency. To say the least, it is making "horse- 
play" of a scientific phenomenon. I have nothing in 
sympathy with such manifestations or exhibitions, and 



Experimental Fascination 89 

shall speak of them in this work only to condemn the 
methods employed. 

SCIENTIFIC METHODS. 

In my remarks, and instruction, along the line of 
entific methods along the lines of the best authorities 
upon the subject, and in accordance with the rules 
observed at the best-conducted experiments of such 
authorities, at which experiments I have frequently 
been present. I wish my students to place themselves 
in a scientific attitude of mind, just as if they were 
attending lectures on the subject at some leading uni- 
versity in its scientific course. The subject is a strictly 
scientific one and should be approached, considered 
and investigated only in accordance with the scientific 
spirit of investigation. It is not a matter for fun ( ?), 
or idle amusement. I trust that I have made my posi- 
tion on this point sufficiently clear to all, so that there 
may be no misunderstanding regarding the same. 

THE IMPORTANCE OF THE KNOWLEDGE. 

I do not advise all of my students to engage in this 
experimental work, for there is no necessity for them 
so doing. What I am really trying to do is to ac- 
quaint them with the methods used in these experi- 
ments, and the results obtained. In this way they 
may acquire an extended knowledge of the subject, 
which will enable them to really "understand" the dif- 



90 Mental Fascination 

ferent phases, and prevent them from entertaining er- 
roneous ideas concerning the matter. This knowledge 
will also enable them to detect any symptoms of an at- 
tempt to use this force upon them in everyday life. 
When a person becomes acquainted with the true in- 
wardness of a thing, so that he recognizes it whenever 
he sees it, there is little danger of his falling into error 
regarding it. The knowing of a thing is half the bat- 
tle of repulsing it. 

And with this understanding, and with this expla- 
nation, I shall now proceed to describe the work in 
Experimental Fascination, now being performed by 
scientific investigators in the colleges and other places 
in this country and in Europe. 

FAVORABLE ENVIRONMENTS. 

The investigator of Experimental Fascination soon 
learns that certain environmental conditions have a 
marked effect on the degree of success attending his 
experiments. And, accordingly, he endeavors to sur- 
round his experiments with the best conditions possi- 
ble, as indicated by his experience. A knowledge of 
these conditions is an important thing for an investi- 
gator and experimenter along these lines. 

DESIRABLE CONDITIONS. 

The investigator finds that he can obtain much bet- 
ter results when his experiments are conducted in a 



Experimental Fascination 91 

quiet place, the atmosphere of which is conducive to 
calm, undisturbed, peaceful mental states. This at- 
mosphere affects both operator and subject, allowing 
the former to concentrate his mind and the latter to 
give his full attention and to rest in a passive mental 
state. It is well if the experiments be conducted in a 
room remote from the street, and as far as possible 
apart from the rest of the house, so that noises of 
either cannot well penetrate. The experimenter should 
also take measures to prevent interruption, for the lat- 
ter will interfere with his concentration, and the sub- 
ject's attention. 

SENSE IMPRESSIONS. 

The best experimenters see that their experimenting 
room is furnished plainly, having no pictures or dec- 
orations, etc., calculated to attract the subject's at- 
tention. A soft carpet which will deaden the sound 
of footsteps is advisable. I have seen some experi- 
menters even go so far as to place rubber tips, or 
cushions, on the feet of the chairs, tables, etc., in the 
experimenting room, in order to obviate sudden noises. 
The room should be kept at a comfortable temperature, 
neither to warm nor too cold, as either extreme will 
make the subject uncomfortable and less able to give 
his full attention to the experimenter. I have heard 
of cold rooms, draughts, etc., interfering with the best 



92 Mental Fascination 

conducted experiments, and every experimenter is 
aware of the fact that a close, sultry day will interfere 
seriously with his experiments. Care should be taken 
to avoid a glare of light in the room. Shades of soft 
greens or blues are advised, and these same colors 
should be used in the decorations of the rooms by the 
experimenter who wishes to obtain the best results. 
Remember the expression, "a dim, religious light," and 
you will get the right idea. 

PSYCHOLOGICAL EFFECTS. 

Some experimenters burn a little incense in the room 
before the experiment is performed, the same having 
a tendency to quiet the nerves and impart a feeling of 
restfulness to those in the room. You will notice that 
the conditions that tend to produce the most successful 
results in these experiments are the same that the cere- 
monial churches of all races have adopted in their 
services, etc. This fact needs but bare mention to the 
thinker. It is well known that soft, quiet religious 
music will produce a psychological condition in which 
persons become quite impressionable, and some of the 
French psychologists have taken advantage of this 
fact. The whole theory rests upon the production of 
a feeling of "ease" in the subject. Consequently, it is 
scarcely necessary to add that the chairs should be 
very "comfortable" and "easy." 



Experimental Fascination 93 

THE ROOM OF A LEADING SUGGESTIONIST. 

I may conclude these remarks upon desirable con- 
ditions, by quoting from an article for a magazine 
written by myself about seven years ago, under a 
pseudonym. The article described the experimenting 
room of a leading American suggestionist, at a series 
of experiments conducted before a class of investi- 
gators and students, at which I had been present. I 
think that the description will convey to your minds 
the ideal conditions for experiments along these lines. 
I said in the article : "The room is well ventilated and 
lighted, although there is an absence of glare. It is 
remarkably quiet and free from disturbing sounds and- 
sights, the air of seclusion and remoteness from the 
scenes without being very marked. The impression 
grows upon one and reminds him of the interior of 
some quiet old rural chapel, on a summer afternoon, 
when all around seems to indicate the lack of exist- 
ence of an outside world, save the occasional breeze 
faintly fanning the cheek, and some muffled sound 
seeming to come from some far distant point, and per- 
haps the droning of some stray bumblebee that had 
chanced to float in the open door. The semi-religious 
air is heightened by the 'dim religious light/ and by 
the voice of the experimenter as he gives the repeated 
suggestions to the patient, in the same monotonous 
tone, encouraging and hopeful, and at times reminding 
one of an earnest prayer. The surroundings, the still- 



94 Mental Fascination 

ness, the tone of the operator, the reclining position of 
the patient, all give the strongest suggestion of quiet, 
calm, peace, ease and rest, freedom from care and 
worry, relief from pain and trouble, — Nirvana. The 
influence of these suggestive surroundings is distinctly 
felt by the visitor, and he also unconsciously assumes 
the role of the attendant at the chapel. The writer 
was told by some of the patients that they soon be- 
come totally oblivious of the presence of the class, and 
are to all intents and purposes, alone with the operator, 
with no other thoughts than the suggestions being 
made to them." I might add that the suggestions given 
to the patients at the beginning of the treatment were 
calculated to increase the desired mental state of rest, 
calm, and quiet. 



The first thing that the experimenter does is to de- 
termine the degree of impressionability of the, "im- 
pressionable." There are a number of ways to deter- 
mine this. One of the methods that have been found 
the most effective is to have the "impressionable" par- 
tially extend his left hand and arm, until an easy posi- 
tion is obtained. Then have him hold the hand with 
palm downward, and then raise, or elevate, the third 
finger of that hand (generally known as the "ring- 
finger") holding the other fingers steady, and down, 
on a level with the palm. Then tell him that you will 



Experimental Fascination 95 

proceed to WILL that he shall feel a tingling sensa- 
tion in the finger, which feeling will increase grad- 
ually, and will then begin to extend up the hand, and 
wrist and then up the arm to the shoulder. Tell him 
that the feeling will be faint at first, but that it will be- 
gin to "tingle" more and more in a few moments, 
and then it will extend in the manner stated. Then 
concentrate your own mind on the feeling you desire 
to produce in him, and WILL strongly that it be pro- 
duced. After a moment ask him whether he does not 
feel the faint tingling sensation — but note this, ask 
him in such a way as to give him the positive sug- 
gestion that he does — this way, for instance: "You 
feel the tingling already, don't you." This form of 
question is really a suggestion, for you state the thing 
before asking the question. When you say "don't 
you," emphasize the "dorit'/ sharply and positively. 
You will find that the sensation is perceived in a mo- 
ment or two, in a large percentage of cases, and in 
many cases the more pronounced results are obtained. 
The degree of sensation produced determines the de- 
gree of impressionability of the person tested. When 
you conclude the test, in each case, be sure to take the 
subject's hand, grasping it firmly, and shaking it 
gently, saying: "Your hand is all right now — all 
right/' emphasizing the words "all right," and saying 
them firmly, and positively. Always say these things 



96 Mental Fascination 

with an air of conviction, and assurance — for there is 
a great suggestive quality in such tones. 

TESTING A ROOMFUL OF PEOPLE. 

If you are testing a number of people — a roomful, 
for instance, you should pass rapidly over the number 
to be tested until you have finished. You may test the 
whole roomful at one time, as above, if you desire. Do 
not act as if you were attaching much importance to 
the test, telling them that you are "merely testing them 
for impressionability," etc. But when you have fin- 
ished, you will know just the degree of impression- 
ability of each person in the room, and you will thereby 
be enabled to select the most impressionable for the 
next test. 

IMPRESSING THE SUBJECT. 

Having selected the desired number of "impression- 
able 9," pick out one of them, and ask him to stand up 
before you, looking you straight in the eye (see di- 
rection for acquiring the "Magnetic Gaze" in a later 
chapter), saying to him, in a quiet but firm, positive 
tone words to this effect: "Now give me your entire 
attention. I wish you to fix your attention firmly upon 
me and what I am saying, for in this way only can 
the best results be obtained. You must forget every- 
thing and everybody else in the room, and must hear 
only my voice and feel my thoughts. Make yourself 



Experimental Fascination 97 

perfectly receptive and passive to my thoughts and 
words. There must seem to be no one else here but 
you and I. You must see no one else ; must hear no 
other voice ; must think no other thoughts, but Mine. 
Give me your full attention now, and open yourself 
to the inflow of my Thought." Talk to him a few 
moments in this strain, and then say: "That's right, 
now you are giving me your full attention — you are 
now feeling my Thought — all is going well," etc., etc., 
in an encouraging tone, in the same spirit as you would 
to a child who was trying to perform some task under 
your direction. 

INDUCING RELAXATION. 

Instruct him to relax all of his muscles — to take the 
tension off of them. Tell him that in so doing he will 
"draw his Will away from his muscles," which is just 
about what really happens. If he seems to be slow at 
grasping the idea, give him a practical illustration of 
"relaxation," by lifting one of his hands and then let- 
ting it drop. If it does not drop freely, then he has not 
relaxed. Try him until he learns just what "relaxation" 
means. This practice will bring about a state of pas- 
sivity which will tend toward success in your experi- 
ment. 

EXERCISES IN RELAXATION. 

It is of the greatest importance that the subject of 
the experiments be brought into a passive condition 



98 , Mental Fascination 

of mind. And the best way to induce this desired 
condition is to bring about a passive condition of body, 
for the latter will have a reflex action on the mind, 
according to well-established laws. The following 
exercises will aid you to bring about the relaxed con- 
dition, preparatory to your psychological experiments : 

Exercises. — Instruct the subject to withdraw his 
Will from his right hand, making it perfectly "limber," 
so that he may swing it loosely from his wrist. Then 
have him so swing it backward and forward. Repeat 
with the left hand. Then try with both hands at the 
same time. Then have him impart to the hands a 
"twisting" motion, to and fro, from the wrist, of 
course letting them twist about limply. 

Then have him withdraw the Will from his arms, 
and then shake and twist them about from the shoul- 
der, like a pair of empty coat-sleeves. 

Then lift his arms up above his head, and allow 
them to fall like a dead weight to his sides — the falling 
must be occasioned by the weight of the arm, and not 
aided by his Will — his Will must be withdrawn en- 
tirely. 

The above exercises may be varied and amplified, 
as found desirable. 

PUTTING SUBJECTS AT EASE. 

Some of the best experimenters take considerable 
time in "putting at ease" the persons who offer them- 



Experimental Fascination 99 

selves as subjects for psychological experiments, and 
at the same time they bring about the desired state 
of relaxation. They realize the distaste and fear that 
anything like hypnotism inspires in the minds of 
people, owing to the public performances thereof, and 
they avoid any suggestion of similar conditions. They 
generally begin by talking of the value of relaxation, 
and how few people are able to relax their muscles. 
Then they illustrate the matter by showing the sub- 
jects how few of them are able to relax easily. This 
leads to the trying of the above mentioned Relaxation 
Exercise, or similar ones, which, as you will see in a 
moment, leads directly to the first real test of Mental 
Induction and Suggestion, which is known as the 
"Falling Forward Test," and which is one of the 
simplest tests known to the psychological laboratory. 
From that test to others, it is merely a matter of suc- 
cessive steps. So the experimenter really begins his 
work with the process of "putting the subject at 
ease," and training him in relaxation. In this con- 
nection I would say that very few people know how 
to "relax," and some teaching is necessary in the 
majority of cases. The above exercises should be 
sufficient. 

THE PRIMARY TEST. 

After instructing the subject in relaxation, say 
to him: "Now, look me straight in the eyes, 
and let my Thought act through you. You are feeling 

LOfC. 



ioo Mental Fascination 

an inclination to fall forward — fall forward — FALL 
FORWARD toward me ! Do not fight it, but yield to 
it — yield to it, I say ! I will catch you as you fall. Now 
fall forward toward me slowly. That's it, you are 
leaning a little now. Come on, come on, come on now, 
this way, this way. NOW !" Extend your two hands, 
one on each side of his head, but a little in front of 
him, so that he can see the palms of your hands which 
should face each other. Then as you repeat -the sug- 
gestions mentioned above, draw your hands slowly 
away from him, as if you were "drawing" him by some 
physical power. This is a strong suggestion, which 
will render him more susceptible to your Will. The 
more reality you throw into the "acting out" this 
"drawing" the more strength will you put into your 
Willing, and the more readily will he obey. 

USING THE WILL. 

While saying these words look intently into his eyes, 
and WILL that he fall forward. In a moment he will 
begin to sway forward a little, and if you keep up the 
concentrated WILL, and suggestions he will fall for- 
ward toward you. Be ready for him, and catch him 
with your hands. This test is far more simple than 
would seem from reading the description of it, and 
is capable of being produced in a large percentage of 
cases, where the persons will allow their minds to be- 
come passive to yours. Where there seems to be a 



Experimental Fascination 101 

resistance, tell the person to "hold the thought" that 
he is inclining forward toward you. Some find it 
easier to feel the "falling forward sensation" with 
their eyes closed, than with them open. With others 
the reverse is true. 



REVERSING THE TEST. 

After you have succeeded in this experiment, stand 
behind the person about one yard, and concentrate 
your gaze upon a point at the base of the skull, that 
is, where the neck joins the head. Then tell him that 
he will experience a "falling backward" sensation, just 
as he did before in the "falling-forward" test. Be sure 
to tell him that you will catch him when he falls, etc., 
in order to reassure him. Use the same tones, etc., as 
in the falling- forward test, except that you substitute 
the word "backward" for "forward." In a few mo- 
ments you will obtain the same result as in the falling- 
forward. 

Both of the above experiments are among the easiest 
tests known to experimenters, but they are important 
inasmuch as they serve to inspire confidence in him- 
self, in the mind of the experimenter, and a passive 
confidence in the mind of the "impressionable." Then 
it is always well to begin by these easy tests, and then 
work up by degrees to the more difficult ones, even 
upon subsequent occasions. 



102 Mental Fascination 

THE "FASTENED PALM" TEST. 

The next test may be as follows : Tell the "impres- 
sionable" to place the palm of his hand upon your own, 
allowing it to rest there a few moments, withdrawing 
all of his Will from his hand, and leaving it perfectly 
relaxed and like a "dead weight." Then tell him that 
you are going to fasten his hand to yours by Thought. 
Then, looking him straight in the eyes, say, in a strong, 
firm, positive tone : "Now you CAN'T take your hand 
away — you CAN'T, I say — try, but you CAN'T. Try, 
try, try — you Can't, you Can't, you CAN'T, I Say," 
etc. Always accent the word "Can't" in these experi- 
ments, for that is the word you wish to emphasize and 
drive home in his mind. And you must, of course, ac- 
company your words by the thought, "You CAN'T" — 
you must WILL that he cannot. Remove the impres- 
sion by saying, "All right, now — all right." 

THE "LOCKED FINGERS" TEST. 

Your next test is that of fastening his own hands to- 
gether. This is accomplished by getting him to "lock" 
the fingers of his two hands together, holding them as 
tight together as he is able to do, using his Will 
actively in so doing. Then say to him, "Now do not 
resist me, but remain as you are. Now, you CAN'T 
unloose your hands— you CAN'T, I say, you CAN'T 
— try, but you CAN'T," etc., etc., at the same time 
concentrating your gaze and WILL upon his hands, 



Experimental Fascination 103 

thus holding them together. It may help you in the 
beginning to hold his hands together with your own, 
at the first, and then gradually loosen your own, until 
they are entirely away from his hands, repeating your 
suggestions meanwhile. Remove the impression as 
previously instructed. 

THE "CLENCHED FIST" TEST. 

Your next test may be that of preventing him from 
unclenching his fist. Proceed as in the last test, tell- 
ing him to clench his fist together as tight as he can, 
and then you must say to him : "Now you CAN'T un- 
clench it — you CAN'T, I say, etc." It will be some 
time before he can get his fist unclenched. Remove 
the impression. 

ROTATING HANDS TEST. 

The next test may be that of making him rotate his 
hands. Proceed by telling him to relax his hands, 
somewhat, but begin to rotate them around each other 
in an outward direction. Then say to him, "Faster, 
faster, faster, FASTER — as fast as you can." Then 
when his hands are rotating rapidly, say to him : "Now 
you CANT stop them— you CAN'T, I say— try, but 
you CANT, you CANT," etc. And it will be some 
time before he will be able to stop. Remove the im- 
pression by the suggestion: "All right — all right." 



104 Mental Fascination 

THE ^DRAWING" TEST. 

Your next test may be that of drawing him forward 
or backzvard toward you. This is accomplished by 
standing before, or behind him, as the case may be, 
and telling him that he WILL walk toward you, back- 
ward or forward as you wish. The command must 
be made accompanied by the WILL. Remove the 
impression. 

Akin to the last are two tests as follows: (i) Pre- 
venting him from stepping out at all; and (2) pre- 
venting him from stepping outside of an imaginary 
circle that you have drawn on the floor. These tests 
are of course accompanied by the appropriate sug- 
gestions, and use of the Will. Remove the impres- 
sion. 

THE "CHAIR" TESTS. 

Similar tests such as preventing him from sitting 
down in a chair; or causing him to remain seated in 
a chair, unable to rise; may be made in the same way. 
Remove the impression. 

OTHER TESTS. 

Another common test is that of giving the "im- 
pressionable" a cane, telling him to hold it fast, and 
then telling him sharply that he cannot throw it down, 
for it is "sticking to your hands," etc. Remove the 
impression. 

A similar test is preventing him from lifting a light 



Experimental Fascination 105 

weight, a box, or a chair by your suggestions of "you 
CANT" accompanied by the use of your Will. Re- 
move the impression. 

THE "NAME" TEST. 

Some experimenters try the test of preventing the 
"impressionable" from speaking his name by their 
"CAN'T" suggestions. A variation of this is making 
him say his name is "Tom Jones," or some other fic- 
titious name, by the mere strong suggestion of "Tom 
Jones, it's Tom Jones, I say," following upon the 
sharp question, "What's your name?" Strange as it 
may appear this test is successful in many instances. 
Remove the impression. 

THE "EYELID" TEST. 

The test of fastening the eyelids is accomplished 
by having the "impressionable" fasten his eyelids tight 
together, keeping them in that position for a few mo- 
ments, when the experimenter says: "Now you 
CAN'T open them — you CAN'T — try, but you 
CAN'T," etc., etc., as above described. Release the 
impression. 

Stiffening the arm, or leg, is accomplished along 
the same general lines using the appropriate sugges- 
tions and Will. Remove the impression. 

THE "CATALEPSY" TEST. 

The "catalepsy feat" of the professional hypnotists 
is but an enlargement of the above muscular tests, 



106 Mental Fascination 

and consists of producing a condition of rigidity all 
over the body of the subject. I do not advise con- 
ducting this test, for accidents have occurred in some 
cases, and there are other reasons why it is not ad- 
visable. I mention it here merely as a matter of sci- 
entific interest. Notwithstanding the claims of the 
hypnotists that this test is, capable of being produced 
only when the subject is in the "deep stage of hyp- 
nosis" known as the "cataleptic stage," all psycholo- 
gists know that it may be produced in the wide-awake 
condition, and is merely a "muscular test," having 
nothing whatever to do with the "sleep-condition." 

ONE UNDERLYING PRINCIPLE. 

You will see that one law governs all of these tests, 
and thousands of others of a similar nature which may 
occur to the experimenter. It is all a matter of the 
use of the WILL and the SUGGESTION of the ex- 
perimenter accompanied by the relaxation of the Will 
of the other person. The Law of Mentative Induction 
is the real cause behind the phenomena. The Sug- 
gestions render doubly efficient the Will Power of 
the experimenter, by giving the mind of the "im- 
pressionable" a mental image around which his Men- 
tal Poles materialize an action. 

MUSCULAR TESTS, AND BEYOND. 

The above tests are what are known as Muscular 
Tests, all depending upon the control of the muscles of 



Experimental Fascination 107 

the "impressionable" by the Will of the experimenter. 
Many of these tests are believed by the Hypnotists 
and Mesmerists to be possible of production only 
when their "subjects" are in the "sleep condition," or 
at least only after they have been "put to sleep" and 
then aroused. As a matter of fact, sleep-conditions 
have nothing whatever to do with this phenomena, as 
may be proven by the fact that all of the above tests 
may be performed without any suggestion of sleep or 
similar condition. 

There is a more remarkable class of phenomena 
than the above mentioned which will be considered in 
the next chapter, all of which, also, may be produced 
without any attempt to induce sleep. This sleep de- 
lusion has led people astray for many years, but now 
it is known that the phenomena of sleep itself is 
merely an effect of Mental Impression and Sugges- 
tion, instead of being the cause of the various phe- 
nomena known as Mesmerism and Hypnotism. 

REMOVING THE IMPRESSION. 

Referring to my repeated caution to "Remove the 
impression," I wish to call your attention to the fact 
that the best experimenters lay much stress upon the 
advisability, if not the absolute necessity, of removing 
the induced condition from the mind of the person 
experimented upon. Otherwise he might carry away 
with him the induced condition, or impression, which 



io8 Mental Fascination 

is often far deeper and stronger than is commonly be- 
lieved to be the case. I URGE THIS UPON YOU 
specially. DO NOT NEGLECT IT. The condi- 
tions may readily be removed by the suggestion of 
"Now you are all right — all right now, you under- 
stand — you are NOW ALL RIGHT," accompanying 
the suggestion by the mental picture of their being 
relieved from the induced condition. The gentle 
touch of the hand, as in "patting" the part that has 
been controlled, will help to accentuate the effect of 
the suggestion of "all right." 

REMOVING UNDESIRABLE CONDITIONS. 

In this connection it may be as well to mention that 
if you ever happen to come across an "impression- 
able" with a tendency to manifest a drowsy condition, 
or the so-called "sleep-state" of hypnotism (probably 
arising from previous suggestions, either direct from 
a hypnotist or from having witnessed a hypnotic ex- 
hibition), you may proceed to awaken him in a similar 
way to the method just given for "Removing the 
Impression." In such case you may make upward 
passes along the sides of his head, saying to him 
sharply and positively, "WAKE UP — wake up now, 
I say— WAKE UP ! WIDE AWAKE NOW— you're 
Wide Awake — wide awake! All right, now — ALL 
RIGHT, I say— ALL RIGHT! ALL RIGHT, and 
WIDE AWAKE! All Right— ALL RIGHT!" You 



Experimental Fascination 109 

may heighten the effect by snapping your fingers close 
to his face, and slapping his shoulders sharply. Be 
sure to speak positively, firmly and sharply, just as a 
father would in rousing up a sleepy boy in the morn- 
ing, and don't lose your head. 

You are not likely to have need for this advice, in 
ordinary experiments, but I give it in case you happen 
to come across some "impressionable" or (i hyper-im- 
pressionable" (see later chapters) who may have been 
previously hypnotized by some operator who believed 
in the "sleep-condition," and brought same about by 
suggestion (see later chapters) ; or else some subject 
of the same class who has seen hypnotic subjects "go 
asleep," and induced the same state in himself by 
imitative self-impression. In such a case, I would 
advise that you afterward give the subject a good, 
sound suggestive treatment, to the effect that he will 
never again "go to sleep" in this way — that he is 
immune to hypnotic sleep suggestions — and in other 
ways build up in him a resistance to this deplorable 
condition. These "sleep-condition" hypnotists have 
much to answer for, for which their plea of ignorance 
is not quite sufficient. 



CHAPTER IX. 
EXPERIMENTS IN INDUCED SENSATION. 

In the last chapter we considered instances of tests 
of Experimental Fascination, along the lines of Mus- 
cular Control. In this chapter we will consider the 
phenomena attendant upon Induced Sensation, all of 
which follows the same law of Cause, and is pro- 
duced in the same manner, and by the same methods 
as the muscular phenomena. 

Let us begin our consideration of Sense Control by 
the familiar test of the ''Burning Hand." 

THE ^BURNING HAND" TEST. 

This test is performed in the following manner: 
Zou stand before the "impressionable" the latter ex- 
tending his hand toward you palm downward. You 
place the first two ringers of your right hand upon 
the back of his hand, holding them there for a mo- 
ment, and concentrating your gaze and Will upon 
his hand. Then you say to him, sharply, rapidly- and 
positively: "I am burning your hand — I am burning 
your hand. It is hot, hot, hot — it is burning, burning, 
burning you — burning you / say — take it away, quick, 

110 



Experiments in Induced Sensation in 

I tell you, it is burning you/' etc., etc. (always empha- 
sizing the words "hot" and "burning") and at the 
same time Willing that your fingers will feel hot to 
him. It is surprising how many people will experi- 
ence the sensation of heat, if you perform the test 
properly, and are able to concentrate your Will suf- 
ficiently well, and accompany the same with vivid 
suggestions. A variation of this test, is to give the 
"impressionable" a silver coin, telling him to hold it 
between his thumb and forefinger. Then after a mo- 
ment give him the suggestions of it being "hot, hot, 
hot — it's burning you, burning you," etc. You may 
even impress upon him the idea that while it is burn- 
ing him, he is unable to let go of it, etc. 

INDUCED PAIN. 

Another test of the sense of feeling is that shown 
by having the "impressionable" hold out his hand, his 
arm being extended full length. Then standing be- 
fore him, with a pin between the finger and thumb of 
your right hand, pretend to prick your own hand, 
jabbing the pin into it, and grimacing as if with pain, 
at the same time saying to him: "You see, you feel 
the pain of this pin — it hurts you, it hurts you, I say — 
you feel the pain instead of my feeling it — see, you 
feel it now (making a feint of "jabbing" the pin into 
your own hand) — you feel it, I say, etc. It is remark- 
able how many persons will "take on" the pain that 



ii2 Mental Fascination 

you are supposed to be feeling. Of course your imag- 
ination should be exercised, under the control of your 
Will, so that you will allow yourself to imagine that 
you feel the pain. 

I have seen the above experiment tried before a 
room full of people, and many of the audience shared 
the induced pain with the "impressionable" upon whom 
the experiment was being tried. Do not forget what 
I said in the last chapter about taking away the in- 
duced condition after the test. In the above cases rub 
your finger over the burnt (?) or hurt (?) spot, say- 
ing: "It's all right now — all right — the pain is all 
gone." If you do not do so, the "impressionable" 
may carry away with him a sensation that his hand 
had been subjected to heat or pain. 

REMARKABLE PHENOMENA. 

In this connection, it may be proper to call your at- 
tention to the fact that the history of the subject shows 
cases in which burns have actually been produced on 
the bodies of persons by strong suggestions, coupled 
with physical aids, for instance, postage stamps have 
been placed on portions of the body, with the sug- 
gestion that they were fly-blisters, and the blister ap- 
peared. You will see that it is all a matter of "in- 
duced feeling," the more marked results merely evi- 
dencing the power of the mind of the individual over 
the mind in the portions of his body, as I have shown 



Experiments in Induced Sensation 113 

in the chapter entitled "Mental Therapeutics" in my 
work on "Mental Magic." 

Many other experiments along the line of Sense 
Control, might be mentioned, but they are all but dif- 
ferent forms of the same thing. The ingenuity of the 
experimenter will indicate manifold variations, if he 
sees fit to follow up the subject. 

INDUCED SENSE OF SMELL. 

The sense of Smell may be induced by the experi- 
menter suggesting to the "impressionable" that a bot- 
tle contains a liquid smelling like certain perfumes, 
etc. This may be varied by changing the suggestion 
so that all the well-known perfumes may be sensed, 
like the legend of the magic perfume bottle of the 
wizard, which probably was nothing more than a 
case of clever induction of the sense of smell by the 
method mentioned herein. 

PERSONAL EXPERIENCES. 

I have seen a number of cases of this kind in my 
personal experience, in which large numbers of peo- 
ple were impressed in this way. In one case, I was 
attending a play, the scene of which was laid in the 
south, and in which one of the characters remarked 
"Oh, smell the magnolias — how strong is their odor 
in this heavy, warm night air," and in a moment the 
audience noticed a plain odor of magnolias floating 



ii4 Mental Fascination 

over the house. So strong was the impression that 
many insisted that the management had actually in- 
troduced the odor, in order to heighten the effect, but 
inquiry showed this to be erroneous, for no odor was 
actually used. 

More recently, I attended a play ("The Girl with 
the Green Eyes") in which one of the characters was 
supposed to have committed suicide by turning on the 
gas, in full sight of the audience. The room was 
large, and jet after jet of the many chandeliers, 
bracket-lights, etc., were turned on by the woman. In 
a short time people in the audience began to sniff, 
and say "Smell the gas," until everyone thought they 
smelled it, and some women felt faint. Of course, 
the original impression was given by the physical 
suggestion, but as soon as people took on the impres- 
sion, it spread like a contagion, by the law of mental 
induction, until all felt it more or less. 

THE PROFESSOR'S EXPERIMENT. 

There are cases recorded of the effect being delib- 
erately produced, for instance, the tale of the old Ger- 
man professor, who after telling his class that he 
would uncork a bottle containing a chemical compound 
noted for its foul odor, uncorked a bottle of distilled 
water, possessing no odor at all. The class soon per- 
ceived the supposed odor, and row after row of stu- 
dents showed their disgust. The waves of the sup- 



i 



Experiments in Induced Sensation 115 

posed vapor floated over the room, just as would have 
been the case if the genuine liquid had been un- 
corked, those nearest the platform perceiving it first, 
and then the next row, and so on until the whole room 
was filled with it. Even after the professor explained 
the nature of the experiment, the class still sniffed 
away, and many refused to believe the explanation, 
so strong was the impression. These cases were noth- 
ing else than instances of induced sensation of smell, 
along the lines of Mental Impression. 

INDUCED SIGHT. 

The sense of Sight may be induced in the same 
way. A common experiment with a very impression- 
able person is as follows : tell him to extend his hand, 
palm down; then mark a cross on the back of his 
hand with your forefinger, pressing well into the skin, 
at the same time saying: "See, I have marked a black 
cross on your hand — on your hand, a black cross — 
see it there— -you see it there now — black — black — a 
black cross — you see it there, don't you?" etc., and if 
he be sufficiently impressionable he will see it. The 
more that you can imagine the black cross there, the 
stronger will be his impression of it. 

If you will call the attention of people to the ex- 
traordinary blueness of the sky, they will be very apt 
to acquiesce, some of them going into raptures over 
it, although the sky is no bluer than at any other time. 



II 16 Mental Fascination 

It is astonishing how many of these impressions are 
given and taken in every day life. Some one thinks 
the room is very close, and immediately many people 
begin to feel suffocated, and wish the windows raised. 
Someone suggests a draft, and people begin to shiver. 
Some one remarks how extremely warm the day is, 
and people begin to mop their foreheads. And so on 
— all being bits from the same piece. 

INDUCED HEARING. 

The sense of Hearing may be induced in the same 
way. Tell your "impressionable" that he hears the 
song of a bird, or the whistle of a locomotive, at the 
same time using your own imagination vigorously, 
and giving the suggestions sufficiently vividly, and he 
will hear the sounds mentioned. You may try this 
on several people in a room, on an ordinary occasion, 
by pretending to hear the humming of a bee, or a dis- 
tant whistle, or some other faint sound such as the 
distant wail of a child, and a certain percentage of 
those present, after a moment or two of intent listen- 
ing, will affirm that they heard the sound. 

INDUCED TASTE. 

The sense of taste is easily induced. The well 
known experiment of suggesting the taste of lemons, 
with the accompaning flow of saliva and taste of acid, 
is a good example. With a good "impressionable'' 



Experiments in Induced Sensation 117 

you may induce a sense of changing tastes from ex- 
treme sweetness to extreme acidity, in a simple taste- 
less glass of water — it all depends upon the degree 
of impressionability of the persons tested, and the 
strength of your own imagination and suggestion. It 
L all a question of induced sensation. The profes- 
sional hypnotist turns this to good account in his en- 
tertainment. 

PERSONAL EXPERIMENTS. 

In this connection I would say that several years 
ago when I was devoting much time to experimental 
work, I cured many cases of tobacco-chewing, cigar- 
ette habit, etc., by a course of vivid suggestion, ac- 
companied by visualization, manifesting as mental in- 
duction. I would create a mental image of the to- 
bacco or cigarettes as having a disgusting taste, — a 
taste that produced a feeling akin to nausea — and then 
would concentrate my mind and feeling upon the other 
person, giving him at the same time the most vivid 
suggestions of "disgusting, nauseating, sickening 
taste," etc., etc., etc., until he would be unable to 
chew the tobacco, or smoke the cigarette. Then by 
following up the matter by giving him the strongest 
"future impression" that he would always remember 
the sensation of disgusting taste whenever he at- 
tempted to chew or smoke, and that the tobacco or 
cigarette would always induce those feelings in him, a 
cure of the habit would be effected. 



n8 Mental Fascination 

"sleep-condition" not necessary. 

Some practitioners of Suggestive Therapeutics have 
met with much success in the treatment of unde- 
sirable habits in this way. It is true that many of 
these practitioners have believed that it was necessary 
to produce the ''hypnotic sleep" in order to get the 
results, but this is simply because they themselves are 
"self-hypnotized" with the "sleep-delusion," and if 
they would but throw off their spell, and begin to ex- 
periment along the other lines, they would see that the 
same results could be obtained without the slightest 
attempt to produce sleep. 

SENSES INHIBITED. 

Just as the senses may be rendered by induction, so 
may they be inhibited in the same way. Any of the 
above experiments with the senses may be reversed 
at Will. Tell your "impressionable" that he cannot 
hear a certain sound; smell a certain odor; taste a 
certain taste; feel a certain sensation; see a certain 
thing; and if you be sufficiently Positive, and he suf- 
ficiently impressionable, and if you use your imagina- 
tion and suggestion sufficiently well — the senses will 
be inhibited in his mind for the time being. 

REMARKABLE INSTANCES. 

In the matter of inhibition of the sense of Feeling, 
some most remarkable results may be obtained — in 
fact all of the results along this line secured by the 



Experiments in Induced Sensation 119 

hypnotists with the aid of the "deep-sleep," may be 
obtained without attempt at sleep. I have seen minor 
operations performed under the influence of induced 
inhibition of the sense of feeling. I have seen teeth 
extracted with little or no pain in this way. I have 
seen nervous patients, unusually sensitive to pain, 
able to stand dental work with practically no discom- 
fort, by means of such inhibition of the sense of feel- 
ing. Even the brutal experiments of many of the 
stage hypnotists, who run needles through hypnotized 
patient's cheeks, without causing pain — even these 
can be duplicated without sleep being induced, al- 
though I consider such exhibitions deplorable and 
disgusting, and worthy of the severest condemnation. 
I merely mention these last to show the power of in- 
duced feeling, or inhibition of the same by induction. 

THE SECRET OF INHIBITION. 

The secret of the inhibition of the senses, is that 
the Will is directed to "shutting off" the attention to 
the part or organ. If the Attention can be removed, 
or shut off, no pain will be felt. Many persons have 
practiced on themselves, until they can inhibit pain 
in portions of their body. And in inducing the effect 
in another person, the same methods are used, accom- 
panied by suggestion. 

MENTAL ANESTHESIA. 

It may be of interest to many students, to have me 
make a little more detailed reference to this subject 



120 Mental Fascination 

of Anaesthesia by Mental Induction. Anaesthesia, 
you know is "an entire or partial loss or absence of 
feeling or sensation." We generally think of this 
condition as being brought about only by something 
like ether, gas, etc. But anything that will tend to 
inhibit sensation is an "anaesthetic." The word "in- 
hibit," you know, means "to check; to hold back; to 
restrain," etc. And pain and sensation may be in- 
hibited by pure Mental Impression. 

HISTORICAL INSTANCES. 

History is full of instances of inhibition of pain, by 
strong mental feeling, emotion, ecstasy, etc. Religious 
fanatics have mutilated themselves barbarously, with- 
out feeling the pain. The American Indians in their 
wild dances, wound themselves without feeling the 
pain. In India the fanatical devotees torture them- 
selves in horrible ways, as a religious rite, and seem 
entirely callous to pain. People have been burned at 
the stake, chanting joyful songs, and martyrs have 
been crunched in the jaws of the wild beasts with 
laughter and joy fully manifest. All of these in- 
stances, and many others of the same kind, show that 
it is possible for the mind of a person to inhibit pain 
in himself. And, the inhibition of pain in a person, 
by another person, is merely a calling into play of the 
same power, by means of induction and suggestion. 



Experiments in Induced Sensation 121 

It is not a creation of the power in the person, but 
merely a calling forth that which is already there. 

HOW TO INHIBIT PAIN IN ANOTHER. 

The following simple, but very effective, method 
is that used in the best psychological laboratories. 
The "impressionable" is comfortably seated, or placed 
in a reclining position, before the experimenter. Let 
us suppose that it is wished to inhibit sensation in his 
arm. In that case the experimenter will begin to 
stroke the arm upward, from finger tips to shoulder. 
The effect of this stroking is to restrain the circula- 
tion, which latter responds readily to such sugges- 
tion, as we shall see a little later on. The experi- 
menter says: "Now I am taking the circulation away 
from your arm, and putting the nerves to rest. You 
will begin to feel a sensation of coolness and numb- 
ness coming over your arm, from finger tips to shoul- 
der. Now you feel it — your arm is getting numb, 
numb , I say — quite numb. Getting numb — getting 
numb — getting numb — numb — numb — NUMB. It 
is now quite numb. You cannot feel pain in it. See, 
I will prick it with this needle, but you will not feel 
pain. You can feel the touch, but cannot feel any 
pain," and so on, until complete inhibition is effected. 
When you first prick with the point of the needle, do 
so but gently, although appearing to do it with force 
— this will reassure the patient, and will make him re- 
lax his resisting Will the more. 



122 Mental Fascination 

RESULT OF REPETITION. 

The above process continued, in the right person, 
and in the proper manner, will produce wonderful re- 
sults. In fact, in this way is the inhibition of sensa- 
tion produced, in order that minor operations may be 
performed without the use of ether, etc. A little 
practice for several days, renders the effect more 
marked each time, until the desired degree is obtained. 
The above method is the most simple, and yet the 
most effective, known to experimental psychologists, 
and if persisted in, and performed intelligently, is 
capable of wonderful development. It should be un- 
necessary for me to add that the experimenter should 
keep before his own mind, vividly, the condition he 
wishes to produce in the patient. He should endeavor 
to actually "see" him insensible to pain, and should 
throw his whole belief and earnestness into the sug- 
gestions. More than "lip service" is necessary. 

DIRECTING THE CIRCULATION. 

In connection with the above experiments, the fol- 
lowing is interesting. You may take an impression- 
able person, and increase the circulation in any part 
of the body, or else inhibit it partially, just as you 
wish. You may prove this by ordering the circulation 
back in one arm, and increasing it in another, the re- 
sult being that one hand will be a ghastly white, and 
the other a deep red color. Blood may be drawn 



Experiments in Induced Sensation 123 

away from the head in this manner, and headaches 
thereby relieved. But, I must stop this, for I am 
encroaching upon the subject of Mental Therapeutics. 
In this direction of the circulation upward or down- 
ward (as the case may be) passes of the hands will 
prove of great assistance, for this motion is followed 
by the Attention, and an axiom in Suggestive Thera- 
peutics is that "The Circulation follows the Atten- 
tion." Downward passes increase the circulation to 
the limbs — upward ones inhibit it. 

I have spoken of the above effects being produced 
upon the "irnpressiondbles." I mean by this, that such 
people are the more readily affected. But, remember 
this, that even the strongest willed man or woman 
may be affected in this manner, if he or she will by 
directing this Will, actually co-operate in the matter. 
For instance, the very strength of a man's Will may 
aid in the inhibition of pain by Suggestion, because 
he will be co-operating with the Suggestor. All the 
effect comes from "the power within" in any case — 
and all the experimenter or suggestor does is to call 
that power into effect. It is akin to driving a team 
of strong horses, or the running of a 1,000 horsepower 
engine — the power is not in the driver or engineer, 
but they make the thing go, nevertheless. 

In closing this chapter, let me again impress upon 
the experimenter the importance of always removing 
the impression after the experiment. Remember the 



124 Mental Fascination 

important final "Now you're all right — all right now 
—all right!" 

In the next chapter we pass on to the consideration 
of the Phenomena of Induced Imagination. 



CHAPTER X. 

THE PHENOMENA OF INDUCED IMAGINA- 
TION. 

I will now lead you to a consideration of a class of 
experiments more marked in sensational features than 
those related in the previous two chapters. These 
experiments are the ones usually alluded to as "the 
higher hypnotic phenomena," although they really are 
as distinct from the "hypnotic" or sleep condition, as 
the ones already considered. Any and all forms of 
the "hypnotic" phenomena, may be produced with- 
out resorting to the methods of the hypnotists so far 
as producing the sleep condition is concerned. I call 
this class of phenomena "Induced Imagination." 

WHAT IMAGINATION IS. 

The term "Imagination," you know, means "The 
power of the mind to create mental images of objects 
of sense; the power to reconstruct or recombine the 
materials furnished by experience, memory or fancy; 
a mental image formed by the faculty of imagina- 
tion," etc., etc. The word is derived from the English 

125 



126 Mental Fascination 

word ''Image," which in turn has for its root the Latin 
word "ima-tari" meaning "to imitate." 

IMAGINATION AND FANCY. 

The Imagination is creative in its nature and works 
with the plastic material of the mind. The writers 
usually make a distinction between what is called 
"imagination proper," on the one hand, and what is 
called "fancy" on the other. By "imagination proper" 
is meant the higher forms of activity of the, image- 
creating faculty, such as is manifested in the crea- 
tion of literature, art, music, philosophical theory, sci- 
entific hypothesis, etc. By "fancy" is meant the 
lighter forms of the manifestation of the image-cre- 
ating faculty, such as the ideal fancies and day-dreams 
of people ; the arbitrary and capricious, imaginings ; 
fantasy, etc. "Imagination proper" may be consid- 
ered as a Positive phase, and "Fancy" as the Nega- 
tive phase, of the Image-creating faculty. 

POSITIVE IMAGINATION. 

Imagination in its Positive phase is a most impor- 
tant faculty of the human being. It lies at the basis 
of active mental manifestation. One must form a 
mental image of a thing before he can manifest it in 
objective form. It is distinctly creative in its nature, 
and really forms the mould in which deeds and actions 
are cast — it forms the architect's plan, which we use 



Phenomena of Induced Imagination 127 

to build our life of action and deeds. And, mind you 
this, it is the faculty used in the Occult practice known 
as "Visualization," which is spoken of in my work on 
"Mental Magic." Positive Imagination is very far 
from being the fanciful, capricious, light, whimsical 
thing that many suppose it to be. It is one of the 
most positive manifestations of the mind. Not only 
does it precede, and is necessary to, the performance 
of objective acts, and the producing of material 
things — but it is also the faculty by which we impress 
our mental-images upon the minds of others by Men- 
tative Induction, and by the use of Desire and Will. 
Positive Imagination is the mother of "Ideas." And 
"idea" is but "an image formed in the mind" (Web- 
ster), and the Imagination is the faculty in which the 
"image" (or "idea") is formed. And in proportion 
to the activity of the Imagination, so is the strength of 
the image or idea. And as is the strength of the im- 
age or idea, so is the degree of its power to impress 
itself upon the minds of others. So you see, Imagina- 
tion, in its Positive phase is a strong, real thing. But 
it is largely with its Negative phase that we shall 
have to deal with here. 

THE NATURE OF MESMERIC CONTROL. 

All of you who have witnessed an exhibition of 
mesmerism, or hypnotism, or else read descriptions of 
the same, have doubtless marveled at the phenomenon 



128 Menial Fascination 

of the "subject" performing all sorts of ridiculous 
and peculiar actions under the direction of the hyp- 
notist. There have been many theories advanced to 
account for this phenomenon, some of them very com- 
plicated and labored. But I have discarded theory 
after theory of this kind, finding them inadequate to 
explain the mental processes involved, much less the 
underlying principle. I have come to a conclusion 
arising from my own investigation and experiments, 
which I shall give you here. This "theory" — or ex- 
planation, for it is scarcely a "theory" — does not at- 
tempt to go into the "what is mind" question, nor 
does it attempt to divide or sub-divide the mind. It 
merely explains the "workings of the mind" in this 
class of phenomena. 

AN EXPLANATION. 

The explanation just mentioned is as follows: I 
hold that the action of the "hypnotic subject" may be 
explained upon the hypothesis that his "Negative 
Imagination," or Fancy, if you prefer to call it such, 
is acted upon by the Suggestions and Mentative Cur- 
rents of the operator, and an induced state of Nega- 
tive Imagination is set up. That is to say that, in 
hypnotic phenomena, instead of the subject's Nega- 
tive Imagination being aroused by his own Desire or 
Will, or other planes of his Mentality, such condition 
is aroused by Mentative Induction, caused by the Men- 



Phenomena of Induced Imagination 129 

tative Currents of the operator, and aided by Sugges- 
tion. Let us see whether this is reasonable. 



INDUCED IMAGINATION. 

All of you know that your Negative Imagination 
may be aroused by outward persons or things. You 
hear a piece of music, and before you know it your 
Fancy is running along painting all sorts of pictures 
in your mind, and inducing all sorts of feelings. A 
picture may affect you in the same way. A piece of 
poetry, or poem, may lift you out of yourself on the 
wings of Fancy. A book may carry you along in a 
world of fantasy and unreality, until you forget the 
actual world around you — have you not had this ex- 
perience? And, more marked than any of the above 
mentioned cases, is the effect of a perfect stage per- 
formance, in which the world and characters of the 
play take such a hold upon you as to seem reality it- 
self, and you laugh and cry with the characters in the 
play. You scowl at the villain, and tremble at the dan- 
ger of the heroine. You glory in the hero's success, 
and shed tears at the sorrows and trials of the suffer- 
ing characters. And you feel these things in propor- 
tion that your Negative Imagination or Fancy is called 
into activity by induction. But remember this — the 
actors, poet, writer, composer, or artist created his ef- 
fect by the exercise of his or her Positive Imagination ; 
while the effect upon you is induced in your Negative 



136 Mental Fascination 

Imagination. The first is an act of Positive Creation, 
while the second is merely a Reflection impressed upon 
your mind, by either the Suggestion, or the Mentative 
Energy of the actor. 

In your consideration of the above, remember what 
I have said about Suggestion, in an earlier chapter. 
Suggestion is merely the presentation of the Outward 
Symbol of the Inner Feeling. 

THE MISTAKE OF THE SUGGESTIONISTS. 

The radical school of Suggestionists pooh-pooh at 
the idea of Mentative Energy having anything to do 
with the phenomena which we are now considering. 
They claim that "Suggestion" is sufficient to account 
for it all. Without going deeply into a discussion of 
this matter, I would ask these gentlemen: Why is it 
that the same words, uttered in the same tone, by two 
different suggestors, produce widely different degrees 
of effect? Also : What is that peculiar Personal Force 
that we FEEL when certain persons Suggest, that is 
absent in the Suggestions of others? My answer is 
that the difference lies in the degree of Feeling called 
into activity in the mind of the Suggestor — the degree 
of Mentative Energy released by him. And I think that 
any careful investigator will agree with me in this, if 
he will open his mind to all the impressions received 
during his investigations, instead of tying himself to a 
previously conceived theory. 



Phenomena of Induced Imagination 131 

HIGHLY IMPRESSIONABLE SUBJECT. 

Now here is an important feature of this matter of 
the phenomena which we are considering. The in- 
vestigator will find that while the conditions mentioned 
in the two last chapters — the muscular and sense in- 
duction, respectively, may be produced in a large per- 
centage of the "impressionables" still there are com- 
paratively few of them in which the more startling 
phases may be induced. Why is this ? The answer is 
that there are a certain number of persons who com- 
bine within themselves the negative qualities of the 
"impressionables " combined with a highly developed 
faculty of Fancy, or Negative Imagination. This com- 
bination causes the person possessing it to be an ideal 
subject for these strange experiments referred to. Such 
a person is what the French hypnotists call a "som- 
nambule" or hyper-sensitive, but which terms I dis- 
card because of their hypnotic association, and I sub- 
stitute the term "hyper-impressionables" I have ex- 
plained the sense in which I use the term ''impression- 
able." The word "hyper" is a prefix, meaning "over ; 
above; excessive; abnormally great," etc. The term 
<( hyper-impressionables" as I shall use it, means an 
"abnormally impressionable" person. This excessive, 
or abnormally great, impressionability, as I have said, 
arises from the combination of a Negative Will with 
an excessive faculty of Fancy, the latter being a form 



132 Mental Fascination 

of Negative Imagination, remember. So you see that 
the taint of negativity is all over these persons. 

A PSYCHOLOGICAL COMBINATION. 

In order to show that I am correct in this classifica- 
tion, I will call your attention to the fact that an 
ordinary "impressionable" even though his Will- 
Power be the weakest, cannot be induced to perform 
the tests of the "hyper-impressionable" if his faculty of 
Fancy be not excessive. And on the other hand, one 
may take a person of highly developed Positive Imag- 
ination — -and our great people in all lines are such — 
and they are most difficult to influence in this way. In 
fact they are constantly affecting and influencing oth- 
ers. The strongest influencers of men belong to this 
last mentioned class. So you see the ideal "hyper-im- 
pressionable" must have the combination of Negativity, 
and Fancy. He is in a class all fr r himself. Let us 
examine him. 

THE "HYPER-IMPRESSIONABLE." 

In the first place, he is most credulous, superstitious, 
fanciful, bigoted, and unstable. He is of the class 
whose fancy is easily aroused, and induced, and whose 
general tendency is toward "giving airy nothings a 
local habitation and a name," and to whom "when 
shown an tgg, the next minute the air is full of 
feathers." He is also prone to Imitation, and is in- 



Phenomena of Induced Imagination 133 

clined to "follow my leader," rather than to strike out a 
new path for himself. He has but little Originality 
and Initiative, which are highly developed in the man 
of strong Positive Imagination. He resembles the 
sheep and goose, rather than the eagle or lion. He is 
always dependent upon others for ideas, information, 
advice, and often material support. His Imagination 
is negative, that is, has little or no original action, and 
acts only (and easily) when induced or excited by an- 
other's mentality or suggestion. He has no executive 
ability, and feels easier when he has someone to "order 
him around," and to tell him what to do. He is a good 
copyer, mimic, and imitator, and is often quite service- 
able in positions where the work is mechanical and a 
"good copyer" is needed. 

The mysterious and unusual has a fascination for 
him akin to the fascination exerted over some birds by 
a waving bit of colored cloth. He is governed by his 
emotions rather than by his reason. He is excessively 
fanciful and "imaginative" (as the term is generally 
used) and has a decidedly hysterical tendency, and a 
disposition to "see things" and to "feel strangely" — he 
has many "strange experiences." He has but a mini- 
mum of self-control, and is apt to "fly-off" readily. He 
lacks voluntary attention, and application, and his mind 
is apt to "go a-wandering" — the only time that he can 
be kept steady is when some Positive Individual con- 
trols and superintends him. The excitable, emotional 



134 Mental Fascination 

colored man, who gets religion at every camp-meeting, 
only to backslide next week, is an illustration of one 
class of this type. He "takes-on" the mental states of 
those around him, readily, and accepts readily a strong, 
positive suggestion. These are some of his character- 
istics. 

THE ^EAR-MARKS." 

There are many of these people in the world, in 
high and low life. But, high or low, there is a strong 
family resemblance in their mental make-up. The 
two great characteristics by which they may be dis- 
tinguished are, as stated, (i) A NEGATIVE WILL, 
and (2) an excessive faculty of Fancy. These two 
combine to manifest a highly marked example of 
NEGATIVE IMAGINATION. 

THE "PRIZE-SUBJECTS^ OF THE HYPNOTISTS. 

Now, the reason that I have gone into the matter 
of the nature and character of the "hyper-impression- 
able" people is this: It is from the ranks of these 
people that the "subjects" of the hypnotists are re- 
cruited. If you understand the nature of these people, 
you will understand how the phenomena are produced. 
Of course the majority of professional hypnotists deny 
this, and make great claims that their "subjects" be- 
long to a class of people having peculiar qualities 
owing to ability to concentrate, etc., but every one of 



Phenomena of Induced Imagination 135 

them knows in his heart that my above statement is 
true. Those who have had the opportunity of per- 
sonal acquaintance with these "subjects" know that 
they all come under the above classification, with the 
exception of those persons known as "horses," the 
name which the professional hypnotists give to people 
who travel around as "professional subjects" and who 
play their parts just as any other actor does. These 
"horses" are trained to go through their parts and also 
to serve as "bell-wethers" or leaders of the flock of 
"hyper-impressionables" who are taken from the au- 
dience. I know just what I am talking about when 
I make this statement, notwithstanding the commonly 
accepted opinion of the uninformed public to the effect 
that the prize subjects are just the average run of 
folks. Now let us attend an imaginary public hypnotic 
performance, in order to form a clear understanding 
of the matter. 



CHAPTER XI. 

AN INQUIRY INTO CERTAIN PHENOMENA. 

And now for our public hypnotic performance. 
Take your seats, please. 

THE HYPNOTIC PERFORMANCE. 

The audience is seated, and the hypnotist appears. 
He makes a nice little introductory speech, in which 
he gives the history of hypnotism and mesmerism. 
He avoids the scientific side of the subject, except 
such parts of it as serve to arouse the interest of the 
audience. He points out to the audience that the 
commonly accepted opinion of the subjects being 
"weak-willed," etc., is erroneous, and that so far from 
this being the fact, no one except persons having will- 
power and the ability to concentrate may be hypno- 
tized. He mentions the time-worn tale that idiots and 
insane people, and very young children, are not amen- 
able to hypnotic influence, and from these things he 
draws the moral that the ability to be hypnotized is 
an honor and a proof of one's strong mentality, rather 
than otherwise. This, of course, flatters the "hyper- 
irnpressionables/' who always flock to a public hyp- 

136 



Inquiry into Certain Phenomena 137 

notic performance, being drawn there by their love of 
the curious, and the fascination that such exhibitions 
seem to have for these people. 

THE CALL FOR SUBJECTS. 

The hypnotist then calls for volunteer subjects. The 
audience does not seem to be in a hurry to respond, 
although some are found to be fidgeting in their 
chairs, and a few almost rise from their seats as if to 
go forward. The hypnotist encourages, and com- 
mands, "Come on, come on, now; right up this way; 
come right up," etc., and the inclination to "come for- 
ward" grows stronger. Then a young man starts for- 
ward with a rush, and then another from the other 
side of the house. Then maybe a third or a fourth — 
and then comes the grand rush. These first people to 
move forward are usually the paid performers who 
travel with the hypnotist, and their coming to the 
front starts up the " impressionable s" and u hyper-im- 
pressionables ,> among the audience, and perhaps a few 
curiosity seekers. These paid performers act as "bell- 
wethers" for the flock of human sheep. 

TESTING AND SELECTING SUBJECTS. 

The volunteer subjects (including the paid ones) 
are now grouped around the back of the stage in a 
large semi-circle. And then the hypnotist proceeds to 
"test" them. He usually starts off by bidding the 



138 Mental Fascination 

semi-circle gaze at their hands, or upon some bright 
object placed in their fingers. After they have quieted 
down and have been rendered passive and attentive, 
he calls them one by one to the front and gives them 
a test for impressionability. He usually begins with 
the paid subjects, for he knows just what they will do. 
and their actions have a powerful impression on the 
others along the lines of imitative suggestion. He 
usually tries the "falling backward and forward test," 
and perhaps the "fastening of the hands," or some 
other simple muscular test. Those who respond 
readily to these tests are accepted and instructed to 
sit down again, while those who fail to respond are 
told that they are not needed, and resume their places 
in the audience. The hypnotist must have reasonably 
"sure things" to work upon for his success upon pro- 
ducing a quick result, and he cannot afford to devote 
the time to "developing" subjects that the experi- 
menter in the laboratory does. Finally he has weeded 
the goats from the sheep, the former being retired to 
the audience and the latter exalted to places of honor 
on the stage, having successfully passed their initiation 
and now being "accepted subjects." 

THE STORY OF THE "PAID SUBJECTS." 

Now, just a moment here about the "paid subjects." 
Some of them are genuine "hyper-intpressionables/' 
who are fascinated by the mysterious nature of "the 



Inquiry into Certain Phenomena 139 

business" and flattered by the position of prominence 
given them in the performance, and who travel around 
with the hypnotist on a small salary and board paid. 
The "horses" are different kind of people — they are 
"out for the money" alone, and are generally "fakirs" 
all the way through. They have trained themselves to 
stand pain and to allow needles to be thrust through 
their cheeks and similar rough treatment to be ac- 
corded them. They learn to act out their parts with 
a surprising degree of ability in some cases, and many 
of them in time graduate into the cheaper grade of 
variety actors, and a few mount even higher up and 
develop genuine talent as actors. The majority of 
them, however, belong to the "cigarette type" of youth, 
who "is out for a good time" and who is glad to play 
his part in the performance for his board, traveling 
expenses, cigarette money, a little loose change, and 
the cheap notoriety of public performance. Some of 
the more expert of them demand and receive larger 
salaries as they advance in the scale, and a few "star 
performers" in the business receive quite good sal- 
aries — and earn it, too. These "horses" often display 
considerable ability in the line of suggestion and really 
lead the volunteer subjects through their acts, the 
latter obeying the line of least resistance along the 
general lines of imitative suggestion. These "star 
performers" among the "horses" are often just as 
expert hypnotists as their employers, and consequently 



140 Mental Fascination 

much of the success of the "entertainment" is due to 
their efforts. 

PRODUCING "SLEEP" (?). 

The next stage in the performance is to induce 
"sleep" ( ?) in the subjects. This is done by first 
inducing fixation of the eye-lids, along the lines of 
muscular control of which I have spoken. Then sug- 
gestions of sleep are given by the hypnotist, such as 
"You are growing drowsy, drowsy, drowsy — your eye- 
lids are heavy, heavy, heavy as lead — you are falling 
asleep, falling asleep," etc., and soon the heads of the 
"horses" and the "hyper-impressionables" are nodding. 
The "impressionables" who are not affected by the 
sleep suggestions are sorted out and sent back to the 
audience, until there is left only the "horses" and 
"hyper-impressionables" including the paid perform- 
ers among the latter, as well as those who have vol- 
unteered. Then the hypnotist has obtained that which 
he has tried for. He has a circle of "hyper-impres- 
sionables" and "horses" who will accept every sugges- 
tion that he may give them, and be responsive to every 
demand upon their Negative Imagination that he may 
induce in them. 

THE "DAY-DREAM" CONDITION. 

"But are they not really asleep?" you may ask. No! 
they are not asleep. Their condition is one of a 
drowsy, day-dreamy state, such as many of us have 



Inquiry into Certain Phenomena 141 

felt when lost in reverie, or "absent-mindedness." 
They have had the feeling of "drowsiness" induced in 
them by the suggestions and influence of the hyp- 
notist and have had their Negative Imagination acted 
upon by him until they are in a state of dazed dav- 
dream. They know what is going on about them and 
realize the illusion which they are acting out, but are 
so passive that their imagination is partially beyond 
their own control and is induced and managed by 
the hypnotist through his Positive Imagination and 
his Suggestions. It is a queer state. I have talked 
with many of these people and think that I have meas- 
ured the mental state existing in them. They are 
living in two worlds. Their Wills are passive — and 
the Negative Imagination, or Fancy, is most active 
and under the control of the hypnotist. 



An illustration that I have used in some of my lec- 
tures on this subject may give you a clearer idea of 
the matter. It is as follows : A party of children are 
playing "bear." One of them is the bear and goes 
growling, wagging his head, and showing his teeth in 
a ferocious manner. The other children pretend to be 
frightened, but after a bit they induce in themselves a 
feeling of real terror — the assumed becomes almost 
real to them. (Children have very vivid Negative 
Imaginations and often suffer great torture by foolish 



142 Mental Fascination 

suggestions of "boogy-man ;" "big bear catch you;" 
"something will grab you when you go upstairs," etc. 
An understanding of suggestion would show the folly 
and criminality of such things.) The terror among 
the children grows more acute, and tears mingle with 
laughter as they run from the "bear." At last one of 
the youngest runs with a shriek to its mother and 
buries its little face in her lap, crying out, "Make him 
go 'way/' "Why, that isn't a bear, Mary — that's only 
Johnny dressed up like one," says the mother, endeav- 
oring to quiet the little one. "Yes, I know it is," sobs 
little Mary, venturing a frightened glance behind her ; 
"but I'm scared, anyhow." Well, that is the condition 
of the li hyper-impressionable" who is hypnotized. He 
"knows it's only Johnny, but he is scared anyhow!" 
It is not all a make-believe, as some radical iconoclastic 
investigators have affirmed — it's half real and half 
unreal. The hypnotized "hyper-impressionable" is not 
a "fakir" or a wilful deceiver — he is a "make-believe," 
whose illusion seems half real, or even more so, 
although less than half in some cases, the degree of 
reality varying with the degree of impressionability on 
the one hand and the vividness of the Negative Imagi- 
nation on the other. 

OPPOSING VIEWS RECONCILED. 

I have gone into this matter of the mental state of 
the genuine hypnotic subject rather fully, for the rea- 



Inquiry into Certain Phenomena 143 

son that the statements of two schools of investigators 
are diametrically opposed to each other on the subject. 
The old school of mesmerists and hypnotists insists 
that the subjects are in a "true-sleep" condition, and 
are absolutely oblivious to all that goes on around 
them, outside of their illusions — that they are acting 
out dreams suggested to them. The new school of 
"Suggestion/' on the other hand, claims that the sub- 
jects are wide-awake as usual and merely acquiesce 
in the suggestions made them, just as they would in 
any other, and are fully conscious of what they are 
doing, and are "make-believe" all the way through, 
from beginning to end. I think that my theory, or 
explanation, will supply the Reconciliation, or Missing- 
link, between these two opposing views, and I believe 
that it will meet with the approval of many who, like 
myself, have had the opportunity of examining these 
people and getting close to the heart of the matter. It 
is true that many of these subjects will tell you that 
they were totally unconscious of what they were doing, 
but that is because in so doing they are carrying out the 
suggestions, express or implied, of the hypnotist, who 
tells them that they are 'hypnotized" and know nothing 
else. A funny thing about these subjects is that each 
one of them thinks that he is the only one who was 
"half-awake," and that all of his companions were 
"completely under" the influence. Remember, now, I 
am not talking of "trance conditions," which belong 



144 Mental Fascination 

to another phase of the subject, nor am I talking 
about the "horses" on the stage, who are "fakirs" all 
the way through, although contributing much to the 
interest and action of the show. My description of the 
mental state of the subject applies only to the genuine 
cases of hyper-impressionability, in the "day-dream" 
state. 

THE HYPNOTIC SHOW. 

I shall not take up your time and space by describ- 
ing the many features of the public hypnotic perform- 
ance — the barber-shop scene; the balloon trip; the 
baseball game; the hive of bees; the school session; 
and the thousand of variations shown by the many 
hypnotic exhibitors and performers, some of whom are 
artists in their line, and show a wonderful ability in 
the direction of making their performances "interest- 
ing" and akin to a vaudeville show. Nearly everyone 
who reads these lines has seen a performance of this 
sort and will know to what I refer. The principle is 
the same in all of these acts or performances. The 
"horses" and the "hyper-impressionables" accept the 
suggestions, and the latter are also impressed by the 
hypnotist's Positive Imagination acting upon their 
Negative Imagination through Mental Currents by 
Induction. 



Inquiry into Certain Phenomena 145 

But even the most startling and complicated ex- 
periments are but combinations of the experiments 
in "Induced Sensation" mentioned in Chapter IX of 
this book, raised to a superlative degree by means of 
"Induced Imagination." The experiments I have 
given you, and others of the same kind, are the build- 
ing-blocks from which the mesmeric structures are 
built, — the style, variety, decoration, and stability, de- 
pending upon the art of the operator or manager. 
There are many books on Stage Hypnotism that in- 
struct the performer in constructing "effective scenes." 
It is a matter of stage art, rather than of scientific 
knowledge. 

The successful hypnotist must be a man of 
strong suggestive ability — one able to focus his 
force in his tones, and also of strong, active Positive 
Imagination, and thus able to form a clear, vivid 
Mental Picture of the scene he wishes to be enacted 
on the stage before him. By forming this Mental 
Picture and by using his Will to project and focus his 
Mentative Energy upon the subjects he is able to 
induce in them the feelings and day-dreams desired. 
His success as an entertainer, of course, requires 
ability as an originator of scenes, etc., which have 
nothing whatever to do with his ability as a hypnotist. 
When both qualities are combined the man comes to 
the front as a financial success. 



146 Mental Fascination 

PRIVATE EXPERIMENTS, ETC. 

While the above has dealt solely with public per- 
formances of hypnotism, still the principles called into 
play in the private psychological experimental work 
are the same. In the latter there is no audience to be 
entertained, and much more time may be devoted to 
"developing" a subject and producing interesting phe- 
nomena, and the "horses" are eliminated. 



CHAPTER XII. 

THE DANGERS OF PSYCHISM. 

In the preceding chapters I have gone into the sub- 
ject of the rationale of Mesmerism, for the purpose 
of pointing out to you that the phenomena of Mes- 
merism and Hypnotism is not dependent upon "sleep- 
conditions," but may be readily produced by Mental 
Fascination, pure and simple, without any attempt to 
bring about the "sleep" which is publicly associated 
with the phenomena. I have not only pointed out 
the general principles underlying the subject, but have 
given in detail the technique and methods whereby 
the phenomena may be produced by any experimenter. 
The methods given therein are the ones in constant 
use in the leading psychological experimental labo- 
ratories of this and other countries, and the results 
mentioned may be duplicated by any person who will 
put into operation the principles mentioned. 

WHY THE INFORMATION IS IMPARTED. 

But I wish to state that my primary object in im- 
parting the said information was not that the students 

147 



148 Mental Fascination 

of the book must necessarily undertake a series of 
psychological experiments, but principally that they 
might understand the power and force of the mental 
principle known as "Mental Fascination," and see its 
practical operation in all of its varied phases. I wish 
them to know the experiments in the psychological lab- 
oratory; the "performances" of the public mesmerist, 
or hypnotist ; and the use of Mental Influence in busi- 
ness and everyday life that we see in operation around 
us on all sides, and at all times, are all phases of the 
same underlying principle. I wish to show them the 
oneness in essence of all these varying phases of 
operation of this great mental principle. 

CERTAIN PHASES MENTIONED. 

There is one phase of mesmeric, or hypnotic, phe- 
nomena, however, that I have omitted. I shall call 
your attention to this briefly, that you may know that 
I have not overlooked the same, and also that you 
may recognize my reasons for not going into detail 
regarding this class of phenomena. I allude to the 
so-called "higher phases" of mesmeric or hypnotic 
phenomena — the various forms of the "trance con- 
dition." 

THE ABNORMAL CONDITIONS. 

This "trance" phenomena, whether produced by 
mesmeric processes or by other means, are abnormal, 



Dangers of Psychism 149 

unhealthy, and undesirable phases of mental condi- 
tion. I cannot speak too strongly against the en- 
couragement of, and instruction in, the development 
(I had almost said the "Devil-opment") of these ab- 
normal states, either by self-practice or by means of 
hypnotic or mesmeric practices. It is high time that 
someone should call the attention of the public to the 
dangers of this so-called "psychism." I know posi- 
tively that this "psychism" is not the desirable thing 
that it is supposed to be. I know, also, that it is very 
far from true Occult Development. This "psychism," 
when compared with true Occultism, is but as the 
baleful glare of the Moon, as contrasted with the 
bright, warm, life-giving rays of the Sun. This false 
Occultism, which is not Occultism at all, but is merely 
"psychism," has deluded many into its folds, and has 
led its followers on to planes which are akin to mental 
quagmires and swamps, following the ignis fatuus, or 
will-o'-the-wisp" of "Psychism." 

THE ANTIQUITY OF THE PRACTICES. 

Nearly all races of men have discovered that there 
are means possible to people whereby they may pro- 
duce in themselves abnormal conditions, known as the 
"trance." And men, from the dim past to the present 
time, have seen fit to indulge in these deplorable prac- 
tices. The means by which these states are obtained 
are various, the favorite methods being the gazing at 



150 Mental Fascination 

a bright object ; fixing the gaze at the root of the nose ; 
staring at the umbilicus; staring at a drop of ink; 
inhaling vapors; listening to wierd music, etc., etc. 
Much mock-occultism, which is really "psychism," de- 
pends upon these methods for its results, manifesta- 
tion, and phenomena. The Hindu fakirs and the Arab 
dervishes indulge freely in these methods, and pro- 
duce results which while highly esteemed by them- 
selves, are viewed with disgust, horror and repulsion 
by true Occultists of all lands, including, of course, 
the real Hindu Yogis and Persian Sufis, both of which 
last mentioned bodies of Oriental Occultists regard 
these practices as harmful, and the phenomena result- 
ing therefrom as bogus and misleading. 

WESTERN FALLACIES. 

And much of the latter-day Western Psychism is 
also based upon the same practices, and brings about 
like results. In this connection I would say that some 
of the practices adopted by some of the "New 
Thought" people belong to this class. I have seen 
methods advised for "Going into the Silence," in 
which the student is advised to focus his gaze on the 
root of his nose, etc., which is the identical method 
used by Braid to produce hypnotic conditions, and 
which is also used by the Hindu fakirs to produce 
"trance" conditions. Is it not time that the truth re- 
garding these things should be known? 



Dangers of Psychism 151 

LOW STATES NOT HIGH CONDITIONS. 

These self-induced abnormal conditions may also be 
produced by hypnotic methods, by leading the subject 
into the "deeper stages," which some authorities speak 
of as if they were "highly spiritual," but which are 
nothing more than the miserable, abnormal, deplorable 
'trance" conditions just referred to. These conditions 
may be produced by hypnotic methods, simply be- 
cause any mental state may be so produced, and not 
because of any mystic process, or knowledge, or con- 
nection. Let us take another hasty glance at the so- 
called "sleep-conditions" of hypnotism, that we may 
get a clear idea of the subject. 

THE "SLEEP DELUSION." 

In the first place, there is no real "sleep-condition." 
Let us see why this is. Well, to start from the begin- 
ning, much of the "sleep" does not exist at all. In 
some cases the subject merely acquiesces in the sug- 
gestion that he is asleep, and then he acts out the 
suggestion, just as he would act out any suggestion. 
He plays out his part — that's all. This phase is far 
more common than the majority of students of hyp- 
notism are aware of. They hear the subject say that 
he was asleep, and did not remember a thing that 
was said to him, or what he did. But all of this is 
merely in the line of acquiescence, and "playing the 



152 Mental Fascination 

part," which fact has been positively proven by ad- 
vanced experimenters. But there are other stages of 
"sleep." The next in order is the "day-dream" stage, 
which I have described as the "playing-bear" phase. 
Even this is not a true sleep, but a condition re- 
sembling a day-dream. It is in this stage that the 
majority of instances of hypnotic phenomena are pro- 
duced. Sometimes the "day-dream" becomes very 
deep, and the "trance" condition is almost reached. 
But still it is not "sleep" as the word is generally 
used. 

HYPNOTIC TRANCES DEPLORED. 

Next in order come the several stages of the con- 
dition which hypnotists speak of as "deep-sleep" con- 
ditions, but which I state positively are nothing more 
or less than the well known "trance" conditions into 
which people of all nations and times have plunged 
themselves by the methods before mentioned. The 
only difference is that the operator induces the con- 
dition by Mental Influence, and Suggestion, just as 
he would induce any other mental state — instead of the 
subject inducing it in himself. It is the same old 
abnormal, harmful practice, in another guise. And 
anything that is said against the self-induced condi- 
tion is equally applicable to the operator-induced one. 
They are the same thing! 



Dangers of Psychism 153 

WILL-WEAKENING PRACTICES. 

I shall not describe the conditions at further length, 
nor shall I give any instructions in the production of 
them. I consider them essentially harmful, and my 
object in speaking of them here is to warn off and 
caution anyone from allowing themselves to be placed 
in this condition by experimenters. The practice is 
weakening to the Will, for the reason that it depends 
upon the tiring out of the Will by straining the eyes 
or other organs of sense. Practitioners of Mental 
Influence in all ages have recognized this fact and 
have employed objects calculated to tire out the Will. 
Bright objects to stare at and thus tire out the sense 
of sight have been employed ; monotonous sounds end- 
ing in "um-m-m-rn-m" are used by the Orientals to 
tire out the sense of hearing by its monotonous and 
soothing sound; vapors and perfumes and incense 
are used to overcome the sense of smell — all tending 
to tire out the Will, and to reduce it to a Passive, non- 
resisting stage. Then when the Will has been ren- 
dered Passive, or tired, the mind becomes receptive 
and impressionable, and, in extreme cases, becomes 
as wax in the hands of the operator. Remember these 
things, students, and you will see this principle called 
into operation many times, in unexpected places. Be- 
ware of the methods that tend to drug the Will. 



154 Mental Fascination 

PSYCHISM LIKE A POISONOUS COBRA. 

Let me urge upon you to avoid "Psychism" — put it 
away from you as you would a poisonous cobra, for 
it seeks to strike at the heart of your Will, and would 
thus paralyze your mentality. Beware of all that 
tends to make you Weak. Beware of the claims of 
"soul-development" or "spiritual-unfoldment" that are 
accompanied by these methods, for they are but 
Psychism masquerading as Occultism or Spiritual 
Philosophy. Remember my test: "DOES THIS 
MAKE ME STRONG?" Apply the touch-stone, and 
then govern yourself accordingly. This is a word to 
the Wise — heed it! 

THE PROOF. 

Concluding this part of the subject, I would say 
that if any of you are disposed to question the cor- 
rectness of my above statement, then you have but to 
examine the types of "psychics" seen on all sides. 
Are they not all hyper-impressionable; excessively 
sensitive; neurotic; hysterical; passive; negative 
people? Do they not become as mere psychic harps, 
upon which the passing mental breezes play, pro- 
ducing weird sounds? Remember, now, I am speak- 
ing of genuine psychics, not the bogus psychics, who 
"are out for the money," and who are a shrewd, cun- 
ning lot, far from being impressionable, and in reality 
using their mesmeric power to impress and influence 



Dangers of Psychism 155 

the credulous persons coming under their influence. 
I am not alluding to these people, but to the poor, frail- 
willed, negative sensitives, who are as impressionable 
as the photographer's "negative" — and to whom also 
the "development" means but the bringing out of im- 
pressions from outside. I pray you, be a HUMAN 
POSITIVE, not a HUMAN NEGATIVE! 



CHAPTER XIII. 

ORIENTAL FASCINATION. 

At this point I wish to call your attention to a fea- 
ture of the subject that has received but scant attention 
at the hands of Western writers. I allude to the won- 
derful manifestations of Mental Fascination displayed 
by some of the Magicians of the Orient, particularly 
of India and Persia. These feats are being performed 
today in those lands and are equal to any of the won- 
derful instances related of the ancient Persian or 
Egyptian Magicians. 

MENTAL FASCINATION IN THE EAST. 

Without going into an extended consideration of 
the subject in question I will mention a few of the 
recorded instances of Mental Fascination among the 
Oriental people, in order to give you an idea of the 
degree of power possible to an adept in the practice of 
Mental Influence. One writer describes an exhibition 
of this kind in India, witnessed by himself. The writer 
was a profound skeptic, who believed that it was all 
"hanky-panky" along the lines of sleight-of-hand or 

156 



Oriental Fascination 157 

similar methods — that is, he so believed until he 
actually witnessed the demonstration. He goes on to 
relate that the Magician was a native Hindu, of dig- 
nified and imposing appearance, surrounded by a 
number of assistants of his own race. 

THE SERPENT FEAT. 

The Magician seated himself on the ground, with 
several jars, boxes, implements, and other parapher- 
nalia before him. He opened the seance by the pro- 
duction of a number of tiny snakes, which he lifted 
from one of the boxes, and placed on the ground be- 
fore him, in full sight of the audience, after allowing 
the latter to examine the serpents and thereby satisfy 
themselves regarding their reality. An English nat- 
uralist present identified the snakes as belonging to 
a well known native variety. The Magician then be- 
gan a slow, mournful, droning, monotonous song, the 
predominant sound of which was "um-ni-ni-m-m-m- 
m-m," like the droning of a bumble bee or a distant 
saw mill. The snakes reared themselves up and moved 
their heads from side to side at the sound of the chant, 
the Magician touching them softly with his wand from 
time to time. To the eyes of the audience the snakes 
seemed to gradually grow from their original tiny 
proportions until finally they appeared as immense boa 
constrictors, which caused great alarm among the 
audience, both Englishmen and native. The Magician 



158 Mental Fascination 

bade the audience remain quiet and assured them that 
there was no danger — then he reversed the process, 
and the snakes were seen to gradually decrease in size 
until they vanished from sight altogether. 

THE VANISHING HINDU. 

The next act was equally as wonderful. The Ma- 
gician placed one of his assistants in the center of a 
circle described on the sand, and with appropriate 
gestures and ceremony went through some magical 
incantation. The boy was then seen to spin around, 
faster and faster, like a large top, and then began to 
gradually ascend in the air, still spinning around, un- 
til he vanished from sight. Then the Magician re- 
versed the process and brought him down from the 
aerial heights, the boy appearing like a small speck at 
first, gradually growing larger as he neared the earth, 
until he stood before the audience, bowing and smil- 
ing. 

THE MANGO FEAT. 

The next act was the placing of some mango seeds 
in the sand, building a tiny hillock around them. The 
Magician then began his chant and waved his hands 
over the hillock. In a moment a tiny shoot was seen 
to appear, and then a little bush which gradually grew 
up until a mature mango tree was seen, bearing leaves. 
Then blossoms were seen, and the ripe fruit appeared, 



Oriental Fascination 159 

which was passed among the audience. Then, revers- 
ing the process, the tree disappeared gradually, and at 
the end the Magician dug up the original seeds and 
showed them to his audience. And, wonderful to re- 
late, the fruit that had been distributed among the 
people also disappeared. 

THE ROPE FEAT. 

The concluding act was as startling as those preced- 
ing it. The Magician produced a coil of real rope, 
which was passed around for examination. Then he 
knotted one end of it and then tossed the knot into 
the air. The rope rapidly uncoiled itself, and the knot 
was seen away up in the air, and still ascending. When 
the rope was completely uncoiled, and the end left 
dangling on the ground as if supported by some hook 
holding the knotted end hundreds of feet up in the air, 
one of the assistants approached the rope and took 
hold of it. At a shout from the Magician he began 
climbing rapidly up the rope, and in a short time dis- 
appeared from view, after appearing as a tiny speck 
in the air. Then at another word from the Magician 
the rope itself flew up in the air and vanished from 
sight. 

THE TEST AND EXPLANATION. 

This concluded the performance. But here is a re- 
markable sequel. An Englishman present took a snap- 



160 Mental Fascination 

shot with a pocket camera, just as the boy began to 
climb the rope. When the negative was developed 
there was no trace of rope, boy or anything else ap- 
pertaining to the manifestation. Even the Magician 
was absent from the center of the scene and was shown 
on the plate as sitting down on one side, with an 
amused smile on his face. This fact demonstrated 
that which similar tests have also proven ; i. e., that the 
feats were not really performed at all but were simply 
illusions produced by impressions upon the minds of 
the audience. In fact, they were examples of Mental 
Magic, along the phase of Mental Fascination, and 
arising from Concentrated Will, and Visualization of 
Mental Images, transmitted by Mentative Currents, 
and acting by Mentative Induction. I shall give you 
another proof of this in a moment or two, after I have 
related a few more instances of this wonderful mani- 
festation of Mental Influence. 

A WONDERFUL MAN. 

Another writer, a correspondent of an American 
paper, relates that he was once on a steamer plying 
up one of the rivers in India, when, at a stopping place, 
there scrambled up the side as nimbly as a monkey 
a native Hindu, clad only in a loin cloth and having a 
tight-rolled red bundle fastened at the back of his 
neck to keep it safe from the water while swimming 
from shore. There was nothing about the man to dis- 



Oriental Fascination 161 

tinguish him from the ordinary fakirs, but he soon 
showed his quality. 

HIS STARTLING FEATS. 

Passing along the deck he picked up a ball of thin 
rope which was lying there, and, unwinding an end, 
he knotted it and tossed the knot up in the air, where 
it ascended, rapidly unwinding the ball, until the whole 
of the rope disappeared in the air, just as in the in- 
stance previously related. Then passing a sailor who 
was holding in his hand a broken cocoanut shell con- 
taining the liquid or "water" of the nut, he lifted the 
shell from his hand and holding it high up over a 
ship's bucket standing nearby he emptied the liquid 
until it filled the bucket, and repeated the process upon 
another bucket, and so on until twelve buckets had 
been filled from the half-cocoanut shell. Then he 
picked up one of the buckets filled with the liquid and, 
holding it in his hand, he caused it to gradually shrink 
until it completely disappeared. Then a moment later 
he exhibited a tiny speck in his hand, which gradually 
grew until it was again the bucket of water filled to 
the brim with the liquid, which he then poured out on 
the deck. 

A STRANGE OCCURRENCE. 

Witnessing the strange performance was a young 
mother with her babe beside her and a young nurse 



1 62 Mental Fascination 

girl several feet away. To her horror the mother then 
beheld the nurse girl rising a few feet in the air and 
moving rapidly toward the babe, reaching down for 
the infant as she glided over it, and then rising high 
into the air with the child clasped in her arms, until 
both were lost in the clouds. The mother burst into 
frantic cries and shrieks and gazed upward; and as 
she gazed she saw a fleecy cloud appear, which grad- 
ually took the shape of the nurse girl, who grew larger 
and larger as she descended, until she finally reached 
the deck again and handed the babe to the rejoiced 
mother. The mother, after clasping her babe close 
to her bosom, cried out, "How dare you take my child 
away?" when to her surprise the girl answered, "Why, 
ma'am, the baby has been asleep all the time and I 
have not touched him." And then the fakir smiled and 
said, "Mem Sahib has only been dreaming strange 
things." It was merely an instance of Mental Im- 
pression of a remarkable degree of power produced 
by the Will and Mental Imagery of the fakir; and his 
previous feats were also so performed. 

WONDERS UPON WONDERS. 

But this was only the beginning. The fakir then 
untied his red bundle, and, extracting therefrom a 
cocoanut, he exhibited it to the passengers, passing it 
around for inspection. Then, placing the nut on the 
end of a bamboo stick, and, balancing it there, he com- 



Oriental Fascination 163 

manded it in Hindi to spout as a fountain, and imme- 
diately a great jet of water sprang from it, falling 
over the deck in great showers. He then caused it to 
stop flowing, and it obeyed ; then he restarted it. This 
he repeated several times. Then he materialized a 
cobra from the air and caused it to disappear at his 
command, after he had terrified the passengers with 
it. Then he materialized several human forms in broad 
sunlight in full view of the passengers, and afterwards 
caused them to melt away gradually until they disap- 
peared like a cloud of steam. Then taking up a col- 
lection, which was quite liberal, he jumped over the 
side and swam rapidly to shore. 

THE REAL SECRET. 

The natives among the ship's passengers smiled at 
the wonder of the Europeans present and laughed at 
the latter's talk of jugglery or magic power, inform- 
ing them that it was merely an instance of Hindu 
Mesmerism, or Mental Influence, and that those among 
them who resisted the spell saw nothing of the phe- 
nomena, except the fakir with glistening eyes, and 
every evidence of a powerful and concentrated exer- 
cise of his Will. These feats are quite common in 
some parts of India, but they are known to be but 
mental illusions, for all attempts to catch the exhibi- 
tion on photographic plates have failed, the plate show- 
ing nothing but the magician in a state of mental con- 



164 Mental Fascination 

centration. These magicians have developed the power 
of causing many persons, at the same time, to have 
the illusion of seeing, hearing, tasting and smelling 
things that have no material existence. It is Induced 
Mental Imagery in a developed degree, but differs 
only in degree from the phenomena more familiar to 
the Western World. 

TESTIMONY OF A HINDU SAGE. 

In this connection I would like to add the testimony 
and explanation given to me personally by a greatly 
esteemed friend of mine — a Hindu sage — traveling in 
this country, who in addition to his Oriental learning 
has received the highest English education and who is 
"a highly educated man" in both the Eastern and West- 
ern meanings of the terms. This gentleman told me 
that when a youth he had witnessed exhibitions of the 
kind just related in his native land. At first he was 
puzzled and mystified by them, but his naturally scien- 
tific turn of mind caused him to seek for the solution. 
He began experimenting, and soon at least was able 
to classify the phenomena as pure Mental Illusion. 
He found that the crowd would gather close around 
the Magician in order to see what was going on, al- 
though all were required to keep a certain number of 
yards away from the wonder-worker by the latter's 
instructions and requirements. My friend found that 
if he retreated a few yards beyond the outer edge of 



Oriental Fascination 165 

the crowd he could see nothing but the magician, all 
the "magical doings" disappearing. When he would 
join the crowd the mystic appearances were again 
plainly seen. He tried the experiment in several ways, 
with the same result. Then he tried a riskier one and 
pushed nearer to the magician than was allowable — 
and with the same result. In short, the influence was 
confined to a certain area and the mental influence 
was doubtless increased by the "contagion" of the 
different minds in the crowd. My friend tested the 
well-known "Mango feat" and the "Rope-disappear- 
ing feat" (as related in these pages) in this way and 
determined that they came well under the rule of 
"Mental Illusion," instead of being an occurrence 
defying the established laws of Nature. The testi- 
mony of this gentleman corroborated the opinion that 
I had already formed to that effect, which opinion 
agrees with that of the best authorities. 

AN ERRONEOUS WESTERN IDEA. 

In closing this chapter I wish to point out to the 
students of the work an erroneous idea that has crept 
into some of the Western works along the lines of 
hypnotism, etc., and which I shall now mention and 
explain. The Hindu magicians, or mesmerists, fre- 
quently sit in a squatting position during their "en- 
chantments," droning a monotonous, soothing chant, 
as has been described, and at the same time moving the 



1 66 Mental Fascination 

body from the waist upward, in a circling, twisting 
motion, from the hips, at the same time fixing their 
gaze firmly upon their audience. This motion and 
twisting is merely an accompaniment to the droning 
chant akin to the motions of the Oriental dancers who 
twist their bodies in a similar manner in rhythm to 
the music. The motion is merely a custom among 
these people and has nothing to do with the produc- 
tion of the phenomena, as all Hindu Occultists know 
and will tell you. In fact, the higher magicians among 
the Hindus do nothing of the sort, but maintain a 
dignified, calm, standing position, or the firm "Yogi 
seat," in which the body is evenly and firmly poised 
in a position of dignified rest, the hands resting on 
the lap, the back of one hand in the palm of the other. 

A FOOLISH IDEA. 

All native Hindus understand the above matter, but 
Western visitors jump at the conclusion that this 
gyrating circling of the body from the hips has some- 
thing to do with the "power" manifested. And, as I 
have said, some of the Western works on the subject 
have gone into considerable detail regarding this won- 
derful "Oriental Hypnotism," which they assert is ac- 
complished because of this twisting of the body. They 
might just as well point out some physical trick of 
motion of each leading Western hypnotist and assert 
that the motion was the "secret of his power." I do 



Oriental Fascination 167 

not think that further comment is necessary in this 
case. The motions and attitudes, etc., are merely part 
of the setting of the piece, or possibly bits of "stage 
business," designed to heighten the impression of mys- 
tery. That's all. 

ORIENTAL METHODS OF DEVELOPING POWER. 

I have been informed by an authority whose word 
is entitled to the greatest respect, and who has spent 
many years in India and other Oriental countries, that 
the following method is used by these Oriental Ma- 
gicians in developing within themselves the power 
to create these strong Mental Images in the minds 
of those witnessing their performances : The Ma- 
gician starts when a youth and practices Mental 
Imagery in his own mind. This process is akin to 
Visualization, as mentioned by me in my work on 
Mental Magic. The Magician at first uses his Will 
in an endeavor to form a clear and distinct mental 
image of some familiar object, a rose, for instance. 
He practices until he is able to actually see the thing 
before him "in his mind's eye" just as certain eminent 
painters have acquired the faculty of "visualizing" the 
faces of persons they meet, so that they can reproduce 
them on canvas without further sittings. 

SUPERLATIVE SENSE-INDUCTION ATTAINED. 

Then the Magician experiments upon larger objects, 
and then upon groups of objects, and so on to more 
complex pictures. 



1 68 Mental Fascination 

After years of constant experimentation and prac- 
tice a few of those undertaking the work find them- 
selves able to picture any of the scenes described in 
this chapter as "feats" — that is, they are able to clearly 
picture them in their own minds. And this being ac- 
complished, the Magician is able by his highly-devel- 
oped Concentrated Will to project the Mental Image 
into the mind of those around him. It is the Sense 
Induction, described by me in this work, only raised 
to a much higher degree of manifestation. 

ORIENTAL VS. OCCIDENTAL. 

The people of the West will not devote the time and 
attention to the cultivation of such faculties, while the 
Oriental will willingly give up half of his life for the 
attainment. But, on the other hand, the Western man 
will devote his time to the acquirement of Will Power 
and Concentration in the direction of becoming a 
Ruler of Men and a General of Finance. Each to his 
taste and temperament — and neither would "trade" 
places or power with the other. They are both deal- 
ing with the same Force, however, as little as they 
realize it. 



CHAPTER XIV. 

FUTURE-IMPRESSION. 

I now wish to call your attention to what may be 
called "Future-Impression," or, as the hypnotists call 
it, "post-hypnotism/' etc. Future-Impressions are like 
seeds planted in the mind, which grow, blossom and 
bear fruit at some future time. The hypnotists pro- 
duce this phenomena by giving the subject while in the 
hypnotic sleep (?) the suggestion that at a certain 
time, either in a few minutes, or hours, or days, he 
will do certain things, or feel certain things. But the 
newer school of psychologists have discovered that 
these Future-Impressions may be made in the ordinary 
receptive state, just as is the case with any of the other 
forms of Mental Impressions, and the result will be 
the same as that obtained by the hypnotists, in spite 
of their theories and methods. 

THE GENERAL PRINCIPLES. 

I do not purpose going into detail regarding this 
class of phenomena, because all that is necessary to be 
said can be comprised in the following two statements : 

169 



170 Mental Fascination 

(1) That, generally 'speaking, all the phenomena of 
the ordinary immediate Mental Impression may be 
produced as Future-Impression; and (2) that all the 
phenomena of Future-Impression, produced by the 
operator on the subject, may be likewise produced by 
auto-impression of the subject (that is, by the subject 
inducing impressions in himself) . 

HOW FUTURE-IMPRESSIONS ARE GIVEN. 

In the first of the above stated principles the sub- 
ject is merely told that, "You will do so and so, at 
such and such a time," instead of "Do so and so now." 
For instance, instead of telling the "impressionable" 
that the chair is burning him now, you may tell him 
that in two minutes he will feel the chair burning' him 
— the result will be similar in both cases. Apply the 
same principle to any of the mesmeric phenomena 
mentioned in previous chapters and the result will be 
similar. The force of the impression, the degree of 
impressionability, etc., will play the same part in both 
Immediate Impression and Future Impression. This 
principle is called into operation by Suggestionists in 
treating for "habits," the suggestions being given 
along the lines of "Every time you pick up a cigar you 
will feel nauseated and will think of a disgusting bar- 
room spittoon," etc., etc. It is always a case of "you 
will" in Future Impression. 



Future Impression 171 

INSTANCES FROM EVERYDAY LIFE. 

Many foolish suggestions are given in everyday 
life along the lines of Future Impression, and alas ! 
many of them are accepted carelessly, owing to a lack 
of knowledge of the principle. How many times has 
it been said to an impressionable young bride, "Never 
mind, you'll grow tired of him after a while," etc. Or 
to a man, "Wait until the novelty wears off and you'll 
see how sick of the job you'll get." Or, "You'll lose 
your interest and enthusiasm, bye-and-bye." Or, 
"You'll find him out after a while and will see that 
he's not what he seems." And so on — you may add to 
these instances from your own experience. And too 
often these suggestions are recalled and have a tend- 
ency to cause the person to "make them come true." 
Many fortune-tellers' prophecies have been made come 
true in this way by impressionable and ignorant peo- 
ple. I have given you a key to this principle now — 
heed the lesson ! If you feel that an attempt at Fu- 
ture Impression is being made on you head it off 
with a mental "No, I Wont!" That is the Antidote 
for the Bane. Remember this — it may save you 
trouble some day! 

THE SECRET OF FUTURE AUTO-IMPRESSIONS. 

The second principle in the statement made several 
paragraphs further back — i. e. } that all the phenomena 
of Future Impression may be duplicated by Auto-Im- 



172 Mental Fascination 

pression, or Impressions made by one's self — is true 
and worthy of consideration. You make up your mind 
that you must awaken to catch a train at four tomor- 
row morning — and you awaken in time. You have 
set your mental alarm clock. If you have an engage- 
ment at three this afternoon you may set your alarm 
as follows (talking to yourself, of course) : Now, see 
here! Remember that you must see Smith at three 
this afternoon — three, three, I say ! Remember now, 
THREE, I say!" And if you impress it sufficiently 
strong upon your mind, a little before three you will 
begin to feel uneasy, and then suddenly your Smith 
engagement will "pop" into your mind from your sub- 
conscious region, and you will reach out for your hat 
and overcoat. Mental Alarm-clock, remember! That 
tells the whole tale. 

THE MENTAL ALARM CLOCK. 

You see, the experimenter giving Future Impres- 
sions simply sets the Mental Alarm-clock going along 
"impressionable" lines. He makes the Mental Im- 
pression and attaches it to the Mental Alarm Clock — 
when the Alarm goes off the Impression emerges into 
the field of consciousness and acts just as if it had 
been freshly made. That's the whole story in plain 
homely terms. 

SELF-PROTECTION. 

But don't be frightened, you timid people. Remem- 



Future Impression 173 

ber this, that you will not accept a Future Impression 
unless you would also accept a Present Impression — 
the degree of "impressionability" is the same in both 
cases. The only reason a Future Impression has the 
advantage over a present one is that it is more subtle, 
and people are not as much on guard about future 
things as they are about things to be "done right now." 
You will resent an impression that you "Do this thing 
right Now," while you pay but little attention to the 
earnest impression that "in a year from now you will 
feel so-and-so about this matter," and dismiss the sub- 
ject with a shrug of the shoulders, instead of saying, 
at least mentally, "No, I Wont!" The present im- 
pression is apt to attract your attention the more forci- 
bly, because it is more apparent — while the Future 
Impression is more "insinuating." But now that you 
know the facts of the matter you may laugh at them 
both, and take the sting out of them by your little 
"No, I Wont"! 

HOW TO KILL OUT OLD ADVERSE IMPRESSIONS. 

And, just one word more. If you feel that you are 
harboring any Future Impressions made on you in the 
past, but upon which the Alarm has not yet gone off, 
you may kill them by direct Self-Impression, or Auto- 
suggestions to the contrary. That is, you may say "I 
WILL NOT act upon any adverse Impressions that 
may have been made to me— I WILL them out of my 



174 Mental Fascination 

mind — I KILL THEM this moment by the power of 
my WILL." And at the same time make a Mental 
Picture of the Impression being obliterated by the 
action of your Will, just as the chalk mark is erased 
from the blackboard by the passing over it of the 
eraser. Try this plan and be Free ! Some of you will 
thank me for this, mark my words. 



CHAPTER XV. 

ESTABLISHING A MENTATIVE CENTRE. 

We now approach that part of this work in which 
each individual student is called upon to decide for 
himself whether or not he wishes to take his place in 
the world as a Live, Active Centre of Mentative En- 
ergy, or whether he wishes to remain a Negative, 
Passive, Half-Alive Centre. No matter which plan 
you may choose, you cannot avoid being a Centre of 
some kind — the question for you to decide is, "What 
kind of a Centre do I wish to become?" 

EACH INDIVIDUAL A CENTRE. 

I have explained in my work on "Mental Magic," 
and again in the first chapter of the present work, that 
each individual is a Centre of Life, Energy and 
Force in the Great Ocean of Universal Mentative 
Energy. Each Individual is a Centre around which 
revolves his own world, be that world great or small. 
The principle is the same in all cases. And each 
man's world is largely what he makes it — what he at- 
tracts to himself. From the time that the child be- 

175 



176 Mental Fascination 

gins to assert the "I" in him he begins to .create for 
himself his world. He draws this person and thing, 
and repels that person or thing, in accordance with 
his mental nature. And he is constantly changing his 
little world according to the growth of his nature. 

MENTAL WORLD-BUILDING. 

In view of this law of life, does it not become of im- 
portance to us to begin to build our mental world with 
care, and with the best possible material? Should 
we not begin to make ourselves active Centres of En- 
ergy, that we may have the necessary Power to build 
strongly and well? Should we not develop within us 
our Powers of Attraction, that we may draw to us the 
things, persons and circumstances that are conducive 
to our well-being and content? Should we not de- 
velop the Will-Power within us, in order to exert that 
Force which is necessary to push our way through 
the tangled underbrush of Life and make a wide path 
for ourselves? Answer these questions as you will. 
I have answered them for myself, and you must do 
the same for yourselves. 

THE IMPORTANT DECISION. 

And so I shall proceed with this work with the un- 
derstanding that you have answered my questions in 
the affirmative and have decided to Create an Active 
Mentative Centre for Yourself. If you have decided 



Establishing a Mentative Centre 177 

in the negative you might as well close this book, for 
from now on the instruction will be along the lines 
above indicated. 

THE DUAL FORCE. 

Let us pause for a moment and see what Forces 
are combined in this Active Mentative Centre. In 
the first place we see that the dual aspect of the Men- 
tal Energy manifests itself always. That which we 
have called the Desire-Force, and that which we have 
called the Will-Power, appear as the Two Mentative 
Poles. You know this well, for you have studied my 
main work on "Mental Magic," wherein this point is 
brought out and illustrated. But here is an aspect of 
the matter that I did not take the time to bring out at 
great length in the said book. I allude to the re- 
semblance of the two phases of Mentative Energy, 
i. e., Desire-Force and Will-Power, to the physical 
phenomena of Magnetism and Electricity respectively. 

PHYSICAL LAWS IN THE MENTAL WORLD. 

Desire-Force, like Magnetism, manifests in a draw- 
ing, pulling, attracting power; while Will-Power, like 
Electricity, manifests in a pushing, compelling, driv- 
ing power. Desire-Force, like Magnetism, tends to 
draw things inward and to itself; while Will-Power, 
like Electricity, tends to drive things outward and 
away from itself. This dual manifestation of Energy 



178 Mental Fascination 

is seen all through Nature in all of its manifold 
forms and conditions. There is ever the drawing in 
to a centre — and there is ever the pushing outward 
from the centre. And this Law manifests upon the 
Mental Plane as well as upon the Physical Plane. 

MENTAL ELECTRO-MAGNETISM. 

We have heard much of people being "Magnetic," 
that is, having the power to attract persons to them — 
but that is merely one phase of the operation of Men- 
tative Energy. We do not hear so much about peo- 
ple being "Electric," and yet the term is just as 
proper and applicable as the term "Magnetic." "Elec- 
tric" people are the people in whom Will-Power is 
strongly developed and manifest. These people "get 
after" others and make them do things. They are 
the active, energetic, forceful men and women who 
"get behind things" and push them along. All great 
leaders possess this phase of Energy to a marked de- 
gree. The mere mention of the matter to you will 
cause you to think of instances of people who pos- 
sess Mentative "Electricity." There are men who are 
able to make the crowd around them do their bid- 
ding — they are able to work their Will upon the mass 
of people. These men are seen to possess a strange 
power, but very few understand it. It is entirely 
different from the fascinating, alluring, charming, at- 
tractive personality of the "Magnetic" man, for it 



Establishing a Mentative Centre 179 

forces, and compels by sheer force of character and 
Will, instead of drawing and attracting. You will 
see why I have spoken of these two phases as Mascu- 
line and Feminine respectively when you consider 
their different manner of manifestation. 

THE ELECTRO- MAGNETIC INDIVIDUAL. 

But, while both of these forms of Power, the "Mag- 
netic" and the "Electric," have their strong points 
and advantages, I hold that the highly developed In- 
dividual must have both of these phases developed 
highly. In short, instead of being merely a very 
"Magnetic" individual, on the one hand, or a very 
"Electric" individual, on the other hand, the ideal 
man must be an ELECTRO-MAGNETIC INDI- 
VIDUAL. In other words, he must have both sides 
of his Mentative Energy highly developed and in full 
operation. In this way he is able to manifest a com- 
bined influence which will make him a very giant of 
Mentative Energy. 

FROM THEORY TO PRACTICE. 

Now I have said enough about the theory of the 
thing. I shall ask you to read over what I have said 
above several times — in fact re-read it until you thor- 
oughly understand.it. And then I shall take you on 
to the practical work and exercises calculated to de- 



180 Mental Fascination 

velop in you the qualities mentioned. Taking it for 
granted that you have carefully considered what I 
have just said, I shall ask you to perform the fol- 
lowing exercises, etc.: 

FIRST EXERCISE FOR REALIZING THE CENTRE. 

Exercise I. In order to realize the reality of the 
statement that you are a Centre of Mentative Power 
you must first enter into a realization of the existence 
of a Great Ocean of Mentative Energy itself. Do 
not pass over this lightly, for it is most important. 
You must begin to create a Mental Picture of the 
Universe as a Great Ocean of Living Energy, vibrat- 
ing with Life and Force and Power. Endeavor to 
make this Mental Picture so clear that you can "see 
it with your mind's eye," and until it becomes a real- 
ity to you. Picture yourself as alone in the Universe 
and surrounded on all sides with a vibrating, pulsat- 
ing sea of Energy, or Power. See that ALL POW- 
ER is locked up in that ocean, and that the ocean ex- 
ists EVERYWHERE. Cut out from your Mental 
Field all other persons, things or conditions. Imagine 
yourself as alone in the great Ocean of Power. You 
must practice frequently upon this Mental Picture 
until you are able to visualize it distinctly. This does 
not mean that you have to actually see it, just as you 
do this printed page; but that you should be able to 
actually feel it. You will begin to understand just 



Establishing a Mentative Centre 181 

what I mean after you have practiced this a little. 
This Great Ocean of Universal Power must become 
REAL to you — and you must practice until it does 
so become. 

THE IMPORTANCE OF THE EXERCISE, 

The importance of the above exercise may be un- 
derstood when I tell you that it will be impossible for 
you to manifest more than a moderate degree of 
Power until you are able to realize yourself as a real 
Centre. And it will be impossible for you to realize 
yourself as such a Centre until you realize the exist- 
ence of the Ocean of Power itself. For how can you 
think of yourself as a Centre of Power, in an Ocean 
of Power, until you realize the existence of the Ocean 
itself? The Universal Ocean of Mentative Energy 
contains within itself all the Power, Force and En- 
ergy that there is. It is the source from which all 
forms of Energy arise. It is filled with an infinite 
number of tiny Centres of Energy, of which YOU 
are one. And in the degree that you draw upon it 
for Strength, so will you receive Strength. By all 
means endeavor to clearly visualize this Great Men- 
tative Ocean, for it is the source of all the Force 
with which you are filled and which you hope to ac- 
quire. Enter into this Great Realization, friends, for 
it is The First Step to Power. 



i&2 Mental Fascination 

SECOND EXERCISE FOR REALIZING THE CENTRE. 

Exercise II. The second exercise, which will tend 
to increase your vibration as a Centre of Force, is as 
follows: Picture yourself clearly as a Centre of 
Force in the Mentative Ocean. While seeing the 
Ocean on all sides of you, you must see yourself as 
the Centre of it. Do not be frightened at this idea, 
for it is based on the Truth. The highest Occult 
Teaching informs us that the Great Mentative Ocean 
has its centre Everyzvhere and its circumference No- 
where. That is, that being Infinite in Space, there 
is no finite spot that is really its Centre, and yet, on 
the other hand, every Point of Activity may be called 
its Centre. Being extended in every direction infin- 
itely, its circumference is nonexistent. Therefore you 
are entitled and justified in considering yourself as 
a Centre of the Ocean of Power. Each Individual 
is such a Centre, and each has his world circling and 
revolving around him. Some have a small world, 
and some have mighty ones. There are Centres so 
mighty and exalted that the human mind cannot 
grasp their importance. But even the tiniest . Point 
of Activity is a Centre in Itself. So hesitate not, but 
begin to form a Mental Picture of yourself as a CEN- 
TRE OF POWER. 

A FOCAL POINT OF FORCE. 

Practice this exercise until you can clearly feel 



Establishing a Mentative Centre 183 

yourself as a Centre of Power. You must learn to 
think of yourself as a Focal Point of Force in the 
Great Mentative Ocean. Just as the great body of 
Electricity manifests itself in tiny points of activity, 
so does the Mentative Energy so express itself in 
YOU who are a Point of Activity within Itself. In 
urging you to perfect yourself in this realization I 
would impress upon you the fact, known to all ad- 
vanced Occultists, that in the measure of your realiza- 
tion of this Real Nature of the Ego will be the measure 
of the Power possessed by You. All of the Strong 
Men of our times, and of all ages, had this realization, 
intuitively or instinctively; that is, although they did 
not know the philosophy or science of the matter, they 
still felt, and feel, this sense of the Power of the Ego 
in themselves, which gives them the confidence to do 
things and the Will-Power and Desire-Force to carry 
out their undertakings. It is this feeling of Inherent 
Strength that makes men Strong and Successful and 
Positive. And this feeling and realization may be de- 
veloped and unfolded within any one, providing he 
ivants it "sufficiently hard." By the exercise of your 
Desire and Will you may build up this realization of 
Power, and in the building up there will come to you 
a constantly increasing stream of Desire and Will. 
In the measure of your Expression will be the meas- 
ure of your Impression from the Source of All Posi- 
tive Impression. 



184 Mental Fascination 

THIRD EXERCISE FOR REALIZING THE CENTRE. 

Exercise III. The third exercise consists in the 
realization of the Nature of the Force. This Force, 
Energy or Power with which you are being filled, 
and which you are now attracting toward your Cen- 
tre, consists of the Electrical Manifestation of Will- 
Power and the Magnetic Manifestation of Desire- 
Force. These two constitute the Dual Phases of the 
One Force. And, therefore, you must begin to realize 
that these qualities are within you in order that you 
may be able to express the same and thus gain the 
addition and increased Force that comes to those who 
Express the same. You must begin to realize that 
you have a WILL which is capable of impressing it- 
self on the things, persons and circumstances of your 
world — and you must begin to realize that you have 
a DESIRE which attracts to you the things, people 
and circumstances of your world, and which, in fact, 
draws to you the very material from which your 
world is made. When you realize this dual force 
within you, it will begin to express itself automatically. 
The act of realization causes the mental machinery to 
begin to work smoothly and effectively. Therefore 
picture to yourself this Dual Force within you. See 
yourself as influencing, and acting upon the world 
around you. See yourself as a Power in the land. 
And also see yourself as an Attracting Force, drawing 



Establishing a Mentative Centre 185 

to you that which you need and want and require, con- 
sciously and unconsciously. Picture yourself as an 
Electro-Magnetic Individual You are an Individual 
because you are a Centre of Power. You are Elec- 
tro-Magnetic because you possess the Electric Will 
and the Magnetic Desire. 

A STRONG STATEMENT. 

Carry with you this thought constantly and repeat 
it often to yourself and you will find it a source of 
Strength — you will find the Strength pouring into you 
when you say or think it. When you feel weak, or 
when you feel the need of additional Strength, use 
this Statement of Strength: 

"I AM A LIVING ELECTRO-MAGNET." 

And when you say it, or think it, you must picture 
to yourself just what you mean by the statement, 
hence the importance of knowing just what is meant. 
Do not pass over this Statement of Strength as un- 
important, but try it in actual practice and you will 
soon see what a Battery of Strength it will be for 
you. And those around you will soon become aware 
of a new sense of Power Within you. 

don't lean on others — don't let others lean 

ON YOU. 

Keep this Statement to yourself. Do not invite the 



1 86 Mental Fascination 

ridicule of those around you by telling them the 
Source of your Strength. Do not bother about them 
— if they are Individuals themselves they will under- 
stand without being told ; and if they are not, why, all 
the telling in the world would not make it clear to 
them. Hoe your own row and mind your own busi- 
ness — and let them do the same. No one can build 
up his Individuality except from Within. And each 
must work out his own salvation and climb the Lad- 
der of Attainment for himself. And the sooner that 
people learn this the better will it be for all. Don't 
be a Leaner, or a Leaning-post. Don't lean on any- 
one else — and don't let anyone lean on you. 

LIVE YOUR OWN LIFE AND LET OTHERS LIVE THEIRS. 

There has been too much of this fool business about 
living other people's lives for them, or letting other 
people live your life for you. Each man or woman 
must grow into an Individual by his or her own work 
and life. There is no such thing as vicarious Indi- 
viduality. Don't be afraid to "assert the I" — to claim 
your rightful heritage and birthright to be an Indi- 
vidual, and not a Parasite. And don't be afraid to 
shake off and trim off the parasitic persons that have 
encumbered your own unfoldment toward Individ- 
uality. Let the Parasites take root in the earth, just 
as you have done; let them fasten their roots in the 
great body of Strength and Power instead of in the 



Establishing a Mentative Centre 187 

mental body of someone else; let them stop their 
second-hand nourishment and learn to draw from 
the First Source. This is the only way, and the 
lack of the knowledge of it is filling the world with 
weaklings instead of with Individuals. 

Therefore think of these things; hold them well in 
mind when you make your Statement of Strength: 

"I AM A LIVING ELECTRO-MAGNET." 



CHAPTER XVI. 

PERSONAL ATMOSPHERE. 

The Mentative Force emanating from each indi- 
vidual creates a Mental Atmosphere around him 
which often extends a considerable distance from his 
body, especially in the case of strong individuals, 
whose Mental Atmosphere is felt when they enter a 
room or public place. Persons whose personality is 
weaker have a Mental Atmosphere extending only a 
few inches from their bodies, and which is scarcely 
perceptible to those coming in contact with them. 

THE POSITIVE AURA. 

The man of Positive Individuality — our man who 
feels himself to be a "Living Electro-Magnet" — car- 
ries with him an aura of Mental Atmosphere of Posi- 
tive Strength, which is plainly felt by those coming in 
contact with him. People say about such a man that 
he "has something about him" which impresses them, 
but which they fail to understand. It will be worth 
your while to study this Mental Atmosphere of some 
strong man with whom you come in contact, for now 

188 



Personal Atmosphere 189 

that you have the secret of the matter you may take 
some valuable lessons from him. 

THE "AIR ABOUT" STRONG INDIVIDUALS. 

As I have said in my "Mental Magic:" "I cannot 
very well describe this 'air' to you, for unless you 
have met a man of this kind you will not understand 
it. But it is a very different thing from the pompous, 
self-sufficient, self-important, fussy air and demeanor 
manifested by the cheap imitators of these great men. 
The Magnetic Man does not tell you how great, or 
smart, or important he is — he leaves that for his 
cheap imitators ; he makes you feel his strength by his 
very manner and atmosphere, without saying a word. 
He has that 'something about him' that people notice 
and wonder at. And that 'something' comes from 
his conscious or unconscious relation to the Universal 
Will." 

INDIVIDUALITY NOT PERSONALITY. 

In the above paragraph I have pointed out to the 
student the kernel of the matter. The "little fellow" 
who thinks he is one of the "big ones" believes that 
his strength comes from his Personality, and sooner 
or later he trips himself up because of this error. But 
the real "big ones" of life know better ; they may not 
understand it all, but some way they feel that there 
is a "Something" back of them from which they are 



190 Mental Fascination 

able to draw Strength and Power, and believing this, 
they are filled \wth Courage and Daring and radiate 
their Strength^ on all sides. They may talk of their 
"lucky star" or "special providence," or else believe 
themselves to be "specially favored of God" (as is 
the case with at least one of the "big men" of modern 
finance), but no matter what may be their special in- 
terpretations of this "Something," they all recognize 
its existence and trust to it. And this conviction and 
realization gives to the strong individuals that air of 
calm, positive Power and Self-Confidence that im- 
presses those with whom they come in contact and 
which forms their Mental Atmosphere. 

BACK TO FIRST PRINCIPLES. 

And in giving you instructions in the art of build- 
ing for yourselves a positive Mental Atmosphere I 
can do no better than to refer you back to first prin- 
ciples and again bid you to realize that you are a Dy- 
namic Focus — a Centre of Force — in the great Uni- 
versal Will, having the dual attribute of Will-Power 
and Desire-Force. In short, that you are A LIVING 
ELECTRO-MAGNET. 

REALIZATION BRINGS POWER. 

If you will but get this realization firmly fixed in 
your mind you will automatically create for yourself 
a most positive Mental Atmosphere that will be felt 



Personal Atmosphere 191 

by all with whom you come in contact. So first, last 
and all the time build up this Realization. Say to 
yourself, "I am a Living Electro-Magnet;" think it 
out ; dream it out ; act it out. And, of course, always 
realize what all this means. You are the Electro- 
Magnet through which is pouring the Universal Will- 
Power, and in the degree that you allow the current 
to so How through you, so will be the Power you are 
able to manifest. 

HOW TO USE THE REALIZATION. 

When you wish to manifest a special degree of 
Power just let this Statement flame out in vivid let- 
ters in your mind. When you feel that you are be- 
ing approached by some other person of strong will, 
whom you do not wish to influence you, just bring this 
Statement into effect, and you will actually see the 
effect of it upon the other person. He will feel your 
strong Mental Atmosphere and will cease to try to 
affect you. And even when there is no special need 
for making the Statement of Power it will be well 
for you to keep it burning bright within you, for by 
so doing you strengthen your realization, and your 
Mental Atmosphere reflects the inner mental state. 

SPECIAL MENTAL ATMOSPHERES. 

So much for the General Mental Atmosphere. As 
we proceed we shall see that the Electro-Magnetic In- 



192 Mental Fascination 

dividual creates special Mental Atmospheres around 
him by his Mental States, depending upon his Will 
or Desire at the time. Not only does his Will and 
Desire affect other persons directly by means of Men- 
tal Currents, but Mentative Induction is also set up 
by the Mental Atmosphere, without any special ef- 
fort on his part. 

MAINTAIN YOUR POSITIVITY. 

In this place I wish to call your attention to the 
importance of always maintaining your Positivity as 
a means of Mental Training. Do not allow yourself 
to become negative to others, even where there is 
nothing lost by so doing, for by this neglect you cre- 
ate a negative habit which will cause you trouble to 
overcome later. If a person comes into your pres- 
ence whose personality seems likely to dominate or 
overpower yours, by all means interpose a mental re- 
sistance right then and there. It is not necessary for 
you to manifest the same in words, for that would 
make you ridiculous in many cases; nor is it neces- 
sary for you to give any special physical expression 
to your mental state. Simply look the person in the 
eye, carelessly and without any special effort, at the 
same time making the mental statement, "I Am A Liv- 
ing Electro-Magnet," and you will find that your 
Positivity will rise until it is equal with his, and your 
feeling of negativity will disappear. In exceptional 



Personal Atmosphere 193 

cases you may add mentally, "I am as Positive as 
You." 

HOW TO CREATE POSITIVE AURAS. 

It will be well for you to practice the creation of 
special mental Atmospheres in order to establish the 
habit and thus render it easier to avail yourself of the 
same on special occasions. Opportunities of all kinds 
will present themselves to you in everyday life. The 
gist of the matter is to surround yourself with a Men- 
tal Aura of such a nature that people will act toward 
you as you wish them to do. A few examples may 
help you to get a clearer idea of what I mean, so I 
herewith give you the same. 

AN INTERESTING EXAMPLE. 

I know a lady, living in Chicago, who was con- 
stantly complaining that people were "always running 
over her" on State Street (the crowded retail street 
of the great Western metropolis). She said that they 
were always crowding her off the sidewalk and push- 
ing, bumping and jostling her in a most annoying 
manner. She asked me for instructions as to what 
thought she should use to prevent individuals from 
so acting. I answered that I did not think it was 
necessary to consider the separate individuals in the 
case, but that she should "treat" the crowd as a whole, 
by means of a protective Mental Atmosphere. I then 



194 Mental Fascination 

advised her to build up a Mental Atmosphere around 
this Statement : "People respect my rights ; they will 
not unduly impose on me in the street; I deny the 
Power of the Crowd to impose on me." And she fol- 
lowed this advice, and in a short time had built up a 
Protective Mental Atmosphere which acted almost 
magically upon the crowd, who stepped aside and 
gave her a full right-of-way on the pavement. She 
would simply go on her way calmly, serenely and un- 
disturbed, and the crowd let her alone. I must add 
that I think that the original trouble arose from a 
subconscious dislike to the crowds and an extreme 
shrinking from people, the result being that this dis- 
like acted almost as does Fear, and really attracted 
to her the interference of people. The new Mental 
Atmosphere dispelled the old one and gave her an ad- 
ditional Positivity besides. 

FEAR AS AN ATTRACTING FORCE. 

In this connection I would call -your attention to 
that remarkable psychological fact that Fear acts as 
an attracting force, in a negative way. If you want 
a thing very much you attract it to you — and. if you 
fear it very much you do likewise. This apparent 
contradiction has bothered many students of the sub- 
ject, but it seems very plain to me. I think the ex- 
planation is that in both cases a vivid Mental Picture 
is held, and the attraction results along the line of 



Personal Atmosphere 195 

Visualization, which always tends to Materialize the 
Mental Image. Do you see what I mean? Think 
over it a bit and you will see it plainly. 

THE TRANSFORMATION OF A "HUMAN DOOR-MAT." 

Another case, from actual experience. Another 
lady, also a resident of Chicago, complained that the 
clerks in the great department stores would not treat 
her courteously, but would keep her waiting without 
paying her any attention, and in other ways would 
treat her like a "human door-mat." She said she 
would not have minded this so much if other women 
were treated likewise, but that while she was ignored 
others would receive the greatest attention, the clerks 
"falling over themselves" to wait upon them. T told 
her that she had gradually built up around her a 
Mental Atmosphere of Expectancy — that she had 
fallen into the habit of expecting such treatment, and 
consequently she got what she expected. I think that 
in the beginning she had manifested a timid, "hum- 
ble," meek, "worm-of-the-dust" state of mind when 
she entered the big stores, which somewhat over- 
awed her. And then, after this drew upon her the 
neglect of the clerks, who seem very ready to wipe 
their feet on human door-mats, she grew to regularly 
expect the shabby treatment. It was not a matter of 
dress, or anything of that kind, for she dressed well 
— and, for that matter, I know women who dress 



196 Mental Fascination 

poorly who never get any such treatment, for they 
understand the underlying mental laws too well for 
that. It was simply a matter of a Negative Mental 
Atmosphere, as many of you will clearly see. 

HOW THE CHANGE OCCURRED. 

Well, I told her to "brace up" and create a new 
Mental Atmosphere, around this general Statement: 
"The clerks like me; they like to wait on me; they 
give me every attention; they do this because they 
LIKE me, and also because I INSIST UPON IT as 
my Right !" The charm worked in a short time, and 
now the good lady reports that the clerks not only 
treat her well but even take the trouble to call her at- 
tention to desirable selections, special bargains, and 
all the rest of it. The cure was perfect. 

AN ANALYSIS. 

I call your attention to the above Statement — please 
note that the first part of it operated along the lines 
of Desire-Force, and the latter part along the lines of 
Will-Power. The Statement of the first-mentioned 
lady (the one who objected to street-crowding) was 
altogether along the lines of Will-Power. I ask the 
students to study and dissect each of these cases, be- 
cause by so doing they will be able to apply the prin- 
ciples in cases [coming under their own observation, 
and also in their own cases. 



CHAPTER XVII. 

DIRECT PERSONAL INFLUENCE. 

In the last chapter I spoke of the effect of Mental 
Atmospheres with which people may and do surround 
themselves. You will notice that in my discussion of 
that part of the subject I spoke only of the general 
influence exerted upon others, and not of the Direct 
Personal Influence exerted by one man upon another 
in personal intercourse. The present chapter, and 
those following it, shall be devoted to the part of the 
subject just referred to — the Direct Personal Influ- 
ence. 

THE SILENT MENTAL CONFLICT. 

As I have told you elsewhere, every time two people 
meet there ensues a silent mental conflict, or struggle 
for supremacy, from which one or the other emerges 
a victor, and which victory is fully recognized by both 
of the parties to the proceeding. This mental strug- 
gle is usually the combat between the general mental 
powers of the two, without regard to special mental 
states induced at the time. But, the man who is skilled 

205 



206 Mental Fascination 

in the art of Mental Fascination goes further than 
this, for he recognizes that he may concentrate his 
Mentative Energy into definite shape and form, and 
focus the force of his Mental Imagery direct upon the 
other person, with such force and power that the 
second person will have a similar mental state induced 
in him, along the lines familiar to the students of this 
book. 

THE LINES OF OPERATION. 

This Direct Personal Influence operates along the 
lines of both Desire Force and Will Power, of course. 
I have explained elsewhere how the Will Power may 
be used to awaken Desire in another ; and how it may 
also capture the Will of the second person. I have 
also explained how Desire-Force induces a similar 
Desire in the second person; and also how it is often 
used to captivate the Will of the other person. It is 
not necessary for me to repeat these things — you are 
supposed to be fully acquainted with them, from your 
study of this book and "Mental Magic." And so I 
shall proceed to a consideration of the Instruments of 
Expression of Personal Influence, and the methods 
usually employed by those using it. 

THE INSTRUMENTS OF EXPRESSION. 

These instruments of Expression may be classified 
as follows: 



Direct Personal Influence 207 

1. Suggestive Instruments, consisting of (a) The 
Suggestive Manner, and (b) The Suggestive Tone, 
and (c) The Suggestive Word, 

2. The Instrument of the Eye; 

3. The Instrument of the Touch; 

and all of these three forms are, of course, merely the 
Instruments by which, and through which, the Mind 
expresses itself — the channel through which pours the 
Mentative Energy. Let us consider them in the above 
order. 

SUGGESTIVE INSTRUMENTS. 

I will ask you now to turn to my chapter on "Men- 
tal Suggestion," in my work on "Mental Magic." 
You will see therein stated the active principles of 
Mental Suggestion, with which you should thoroughly 
familiarize yourself, for I shall not repeat the instruc- 
tions in this book. You will see there that Suggestion 
is the outward symbol of the inward Mental State, 
and that it is the inner state that gives vitality to the 
Suggestion. Get this idea fixed firmly in your mind, 
and always think of the Force behind the Suggestion. 
I have explained to you, also, that when one receives 
a Suggestion through a Physical agent, he has induced 
in himself the mental state corresponding to the one 
originating that Physical Suggestion. For example, 
if you feel yourself filled with Confidence, Energy and 
Fearlessness, your outward appearance will reflect 



208 Mental Fascination 

that inner state, and the outer appearance will become 
a Suggestion to others. These others will instinctively 
feel that your inner state is as I have stated. And, 
this being so, a Physical Suggestion made stronger 
than usual will produce a deeper impression on others 
than would any ordinary suggestion. 

THE SUGGESTIVE MANNER. 

In view of the above, you will see why it is that 
those familiar with the subject deem it important to 
cultivate the Suggestive Instruments. Beginning with 
(a) the Suggestive Manner ] you will see why it is 
that we are impressed with the manner of a man who 
manifests Energy, Self-Confidence, and Power in 
every motion. And also, why we have confidence in a 
man whose manner indicates that he is a person used 
to being trusted by others — accustomed to having con- 
fidence reposed in him. And so I might mention hun- 
dreds of examples tending to show that if a man's 
manner conveys the impression that he is used to 
being treated in a certain way, and that he is accus- 
tomed to acting in a certain way, we are very .apt to 
accept the Suggestion of Manner, and fall into line 
with the rest of people. And if the man happens to be 
a good actor, we may be imposed upon and fooled by 
his Suggestive Manner. 



Direct Personal Influence 209 

THE RULE WORKS BOTH WAYS. 

Not only does this law hold good in the case of the 
manner and appearance of Success, Strength, Confi- 
dence, etc., but it also operates along the lines of the 
appearance and manner of Failure, Weakness, and 
Distrust. Do you not know of cases wherein you 
have felt that certain persons were not worthy of Con- 
fidence ; or were not to be depended upon where 
Strength of Character was required ; or were not likely 
to Succeed? Of course you have, and you acted upon 
the Suggestion, too. 

AN ILLUSTRATION. 

In illustrating this point, I have frequently used 
the illustration of the two dogs, the one carrying him- 
self in a manner betokening Self-Respect and an abil- 
ity to prevent and resent undue liberties, and the other 
carrying his tail between his legs, in a manner and 
appearance indicating that he expected to be kicked 
and -cuffed. The first dog is almost invariably treated 
with respect, even by the most mischievous young- 
sters; while the second one almost always invites to 
himself the kicks, tin cans and brick bats of the young 
hoodlums of the neighborhood. And this illustration 
is as true in the case of people as in the case of dogs. 
Better take the hint ! 



2io Mental Fascination 

HOW TO ACQUIRE THIS MANNER. 

But, you may say, how is one to acquire the proper 
Suggestive Manner? My answer is that there is but 
one sure way, and that is to begin to Think Out the 
Park; Visualize it; and Act it Out. You will see the 
philosophy of this in my lesson on "Mental Architec- 
ture," in my work on "Mental Magic." In other 
words, if you wish to convey a Suggestive Manner of 
Confidence, you must begin to THINK "Confidence" 
from morning until night. And you must also begin 
to Visualize "Confidence" when you have the chance 
to do so — that is, you must make a Mental Picture of 
yourself as manifesting Confidence. And you must 
also begin to ACT OUT THE PART. 

ACTING OUT YOUR PART. 

Now about this Acting Out, I would say that I 
mean not only the "playing the part" in your inter- 
views with people, but I also mean an actual series of 
rehearsals in private, just as you would do if you were 
preparing to play a part on the stage, in public. You 
must form a Mental Image of how you would look 
and act if you were filled with Confidence, and were 
approaching people. You will find that practice will 
improve you very much in this way, and that you will 
soon acquire a manner that will be like second-nature, 
and will really serve to give the Suggestion of your 



Direct Persona! Influence 211 

Manner to others with whom you come in contact. 
And, more than this, it will actually tend to build up 
confidence in yourself. Imagine yourself as approach- 
ing strange people, and then act out the part the best 
you know how, improving a little in ease, and smooth- 
ness of action each day. Think of how the actor on 
the stage impresses you — and then remember that the 
manner was acquired by constant practice, and work. 
And you may do the same, and may manage to im- 
press other people just as the actor does you. And 
what is true in the case of "Confidence" is true regard- 
ing any Character that you wish to play. Any and all 
Characters may be played out in this way, and an 
appearance and manner acquired which will give the 
Suggestion to others. I wish I could make you realize 
how much there is in this method. If you could 
realize how some men have used it to acquire qualities 
that have enabled them to prey upon the public, you 
would realize how important it might be for you for 
legitimate and honorable use. 

PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT. 

In this Acting Out, you must remember that the 
practice will make you so perfect that the part will 
appear natural when you play it in public. But with- 
out practice, an attempt to play it in public will make 
one ridiculous. Remember the illustration of the real 
actor, and you will have the secret of Acting Out. 



212 Mental Fascination 

And also remember this, that in the measure that you 
"throw your mind" into the part, so will be your suc- 
cess. When you practice, you must throw your mind 
into the acting, just as you would if you were in earn- 
est. It is the Mind back of it all, remember. 

THE SUGGESTIVE TONE. 

The second Suggestive Instrument is the Suggestive 
Tone. This, too, may be acquired by Acting Out. 
You must practice until you are able to express your 
meaning with "feeling" that all who hear may be im- 
pressed. You should begin your practice by choosing 
some simple words in every-day use — "Good Morn- 
ing !" for instance. Try it now, and see how roughly, 
clumsily and crudely you give the morning greeting. 
Then try to imagine that you are full of good cheer, 
energy, and brightness, and then throw your feeling 
into your "good morning," and see how different it 
.seems. Practice this awhile and you will soon acquire 
a natural, cheery, bright, and invigorating tone when 
you say "good morning." You will not need a teacher 
in elocution to tell you how to do this. Try to FEEL 
the part, and you will express it naturally. Make your 
Feelings more flexible, and your Tones will reflect 
them. After you have mastered the simpler terms 
of expression, work up to larger sentences, and 
speeches. Try them on the chairs in your room, in 
imagining that people are seated therein; speak to 



Direct Personal Influence 213 

them feelingly and with expression, until you acquire 
the art. You will not realize how much you may gain 
by such practice, until you actually try it. I wish that 
you could hear the testimony of some people to whom 
I have taught this thing. 

THE IMPORTANCE OF IT. 

There is nothing more important in Personal Influ- 
ence than a good Suggestive Tone. Think of the 
people that you know, and then remember what an 
influence their voices have on you. Not only the qual- 
ity of the voice, but the Tone. You readily recognize 
the difference between the tone of the hesitating, timid, 
self-doubting person, and that of the confident, self- 
reliant individual. There is a subtle vibration about 
the tone of the latter that causes one to feel confidence 
and respect, and which exacts obedience in a quiet, 
calm way, devoid of bluster or rant. Read what I 
have said on this subject, in my lesson on "Personal 
Influence" in my work on "Mental Magic." 

EXAMPLES OF ITS USE. 

If you will read the part of the present book dealing 
with Psychological Experimentation, you will see that 
much depends upon the Tone. You will see that 
when you say to a subject, "You CAN'T," the tone 
in which you say "CAN'T" goes a long way toward 
producing the response. And so it is with the Sug- 



214 Mental Fascination 

gestive Tone, no matter what it is made to express. 
It always impresses upon one that the speaker using it 
means what he says. And that is why many public 
men practice year after year in mastering this Instru- 
ment of Influence — the Suggestive Tone. Again 
would I refer you to the example of the Actor — see 
how he manages to throw FEELING into his Tone. 
And you may do likewise, if you will but practice 
in earnest, and throw your mind into the work. Think 
of the thing you wish to express — visualize it — and 
then act it out in your Tone. You will be surprised 
at the rapid progress that you will make. Remember 
always, though, the Tone is but the Instrument of 
Expression of the MIND back of it. 

USE NERVES, NOT 'MUSCLES. 

Many people make the mistake of "speaking with 
the muscles instead of with their nerves," as one writer 
has expressed it. In other words, they seem to throw 
muscular force into their tones, instead of nervous 
energy, and in so doing they make a great mistake, 
for the former has a dull, non-penetrating effect, 
whereas the latter vibrates subtly and reaches the feel- 
ing part of one's mind. FEEL, FEEL, FEEL, when 
you wish to speak impressively, and your Tones will 
reflect the same, and induce a corresponding feeling in 
others. 



Direct Personal Influence 215 

THE SUGGESTIVE WORD. 

The Third Form of the Suggestive Instrument is 
The Suggestive Word. I may be able to explain this 
more clearly when I call your attention to the 
fact that EACH WORD IS A CRYSTALLIZED 
THOUGHT. In every word there is an imprisoned 
Thought. And when you lodge a Word in the mind 
of another person, the crystal covering is dissolved, 
and the released thought manifests itself. And, this 
being so, it becomes important for one to carefully 
choose the crystallized thoughts, or words, which he 
wishes to implant in the mind of another. I have 
spoken of this in my larger work, in my lesson on 
"Mental Suggestion," to which I refer you. But I 
wish here to say to you, again, that you should study 
words until you are able to distinguish between those 
which carry a live, active, feeling thought, and those 
less strong. 

EXAMPLES. 

Take the word "STRONG," for instance. Does it 
not make you feel Strength when you hear it forcibly 
and feelingly pronounced? Take the word "KIND," 
and see what feelings it arouses in you. Pronounce 
the words "LION" and "LAMB," and see the differ- 
ent feelings you experience from the differing sounds. 
Take the word "CRASH," and see how it suggests 



2i6 Mental Fascination 

the crashing, crunching, tearing, startling thing for 
which it stands. Compare the sound of the words 
"ROUGH" and "SMOOTH"— and you will see what 
I mean. The only way that I can point out to you to 
acquire the use of Suggestive Words is to study 
Words themselves. Listen to the words used by 
others, and note their effect on you. Take a small 
dictionary and run over its pages, and you will soon 
have a collection of good, strong, effective terms for 
handy use when occasion demands. A man does not 
have to be "highly educated" in the usual sense of 
that term, in order to use Strong Suggestive Words. 
Some instinctively choose vital words, charged with 
feeling, and such make their words felt. Think over 
this matter. 

NUTSHELL INSTRUCTIONS. 

In the use of all the three Suggestive Instruments, 
remember that the object is to make others FEEL the 
Mental State you are expressing. That is the whole 
thing in a nutshell. 



CHAPTER XVIIL 

EYE-EXPRESSION. 

Next in order in our list of Instruments of Menta- 
tive Expression is The Eye, that most wonderful of 
all the human organs, and which is as much an instru- 
ment for the Expression of Mentative For^'as it is 
an instrument for receiving the sense-impression of 
Sight. Let us consider it in its former aspect^ 

THE EYE AS A SUGGESTIVE INSTRUMENT? 

In the first place, the Eye is one of the most, potent 
and effective instruments of Suggestion, although I 
have not included it in that class. The expression of 
the eye will induce mental conditions in others along 
the lines of Suggestion, and those who understand and 
have mastered this art of using the eyes have .at their 
disposal a wonderful instrument of Suggestive Influ- 
ence. Those of us who have ever met a very "mag- 
netic" man, or a "charming and fascinating" woman, 
have carried away with us a lively recollection of "the 
expression of the eyes" of such a person. Actors and 
public speakers, as well as those whose business it is 

217 



218 Mental Fascination 

to meet and impress people, often make a close study 
of eye-expression in order to produce a heightened 
effect along these lines. While this phase of the sub- 
ject belongs more properly to the various "Schools of 
Expression" in various parts of the country, it may 
be worth while to pause a moment and examine some 
of the leading principles of this Art of Eye-Expres- 
sion, considered without reference to the phase of 
Mentative Energy. 

EXERCISES IN EYE-EXPRESSION. 

Begin by studying your eyes in a mirror. You will 
see that in the center of the eyeball there is a black 
spot ; this is called the "Pupil" of the eye. The larger 
circle surrounding the Pupil is called the "Iris." The 
white of the eye surrounds the Iris. The upper eye- 
lid moving over the eyeball produces a variety of ex- 
pressions, each giving to the face a totally different 
appearance, expression of suggestive meaning. We 
all recognize the meaning of these different expres- 
sions, but very few of us understand the mechanism 
producing the expression. Standing before your mir- 
ror, study these various expressions. The following 
exercises may help you. 

EYELID EXERCISES. 

I. Hold the upper lid in such a position that its 



Eye-Expression 219 

edge rests half-way between the pupil and top of the 
iris. This gives an expression of Calmness. 

2. Rest the edge of the upper eyelid at the top of 
the pupil. This gives an expression of Indifference. 

3. The edge of the eyelid resting at the top of the 
iris gives an expression of Strong Interest. 

4. The edge of the eyelid resting half-way over 
the pupil gives an expression of Deep Thought. 

5. The edge of the eyelid resting just above the 
edge of the iris, and thus showing a narrow strip of 
white between the edge of the lid and the edge of the 
iris, gives an expression of Emotional Activity. 

6. The above position, exaggerated so as to show 
as much of the white as possible between the edge of 
the iris and the edge of the lid, will give an expression 
of Emotional Excitement. 

HOW TO PRACTICE THE EXERCISES. 

Teachers of the Art of Expression instruct their 
pupils to practice the above expressions and positions. 
They find that with a little practice nearly every one 
may easily acquire the art of expression in the first 
four exercises, but that the last two are more difficult 
of acquirement. The last exercise — Emotional Excite- 
ment — especially is found to be quite difficult of at- 
tainment, and teachers claim that but a small percent- 
age are able to produce the expression without consid- 



220 Mental Fascination 

erable practice. Practice these movements until you 
can reproduce them without the aid of the mirror, 
just as a man may learn to shave without a mirror, 
by constant practice before one. The exercises will 
not only enable you to express the different mental 
states easily and freely, but will also tend to strengthen 
the muscles and nerves of the eyes themselves, pro- 
viding that you proceed gradually and do not overtask 
the eyes at the beginning. Do not scowl, or contract 
the brows in the practices. A few minutes at a time 
is all that you should use in practicing. 

THE SEVENTH EXERCISE. 

When you have mastered the above exercises, espe- 
cially Nos. 5 and 6, you may try the following, which 
is the most difficult of all : 

7. Rest the eyelid in the position of Strong Interest 
(No. 3), and then at the same time lift the edge of the 
under lid to the lower edge of the pupil. This position 
gives the expression of Close Scrutiny. 

THE POWER OF EXPRESSION. 

You will be surprised at the added Power of Ex- 
pression that the careful practice of the above exer- 
cises will give you. You will be able to manifest 
more Suggestive Feeling, and will induce Emotional 
States of Feeling in others. A little practice will give 
you such convincing proof of this that you will not 



Eye-Expression 221 

need urging to further perfect yourself in them. The 
Expressions of Emotional Activity and Emotional Ex- 
citement especially will produce a startling result if 
used on appropriate occasions when you wish to ex- 
hibit the appearance of the deepest Emotional Excite- 
ment and Force. 

DEVELOPMENT EXERCISES. 

The following Development Exercises are highly 
recommended by teachers who have devoted years of 
study and practice along these lines : 

1. Open the eyes quite widely, but not so widely 
as to strain them, and hold them in that position for a 
few seconds, gazing into your mirror, which must be 
directly in front of you on a level with your eyes. 
While gazing open them a trifle wider still, without 
straining, and throw an intense expression into them. 
Do not move the eyebrows, but allow them to remain 
normal. 

2. Resume the above position, and then change to 
the expression of Strong Interest (see previous exer- 
cises), looking at yourself in the glass just as you 
would in looking at another person with that ex- 
pression. 

3. Resume position 1, and then gradually change 
to the expression of Emotional Activity (see previous 
exercises), gazing at yourself in the mirror. 



222 Mental Fascination 

4. Resume position 1, and then gradually change 
to the expression of Emotional Excitement (see pre- 
vious exercises) gazing at yourself in the mirror. 

5. Resume position 1, and then gradually change 
to the expression of Close Scrutiny (see previous ex- 
ercises), gazing at yourself in the mirror. 

In the above exercises you must act as if the reflec- 
tion of yourself in the mirror were in reality an- 
other person whom you wished to influence. The bet- 
ter you act this out, the better will your results be. 

6. Practice the expression of Strong Interest on 
persons to whom you are listening, until you feel that 
you have awakened a response in them. I may add 
that the expression of Deep Interest consists of but 
the same expression heightened by more feeling be- 
hind it ; and the expression of Loving Interest is the 
same, "only more so." This "more feeling" may be 
either real or assumed, as in the case of the good actor. 

7. Practice the expression of Close Scrutiny upon 
other persons upon appropriate occasions in which you 
desire to appear as taking a deep, critical interest in 
some proposition, undertaking, theory, etc. Many per- 
sons have built up a reputation for being "good listen- 
ers" and "keen observers" by this practice. I mention 
it for what it may be worth to you. I am merely 
giving you the "rules of the game," not necessarily 
advising you to play it. 



CHAPTER XIX. 

THE FASCINATION OF THE EYE. 

And now I have reached that part of my subject in 
which I must speak of the Power of the Eye to convey 
Mentative Force. Owing to some law of nervous 
mechanism not fully understood as yet, the eye is one 
of the most effective mediums for the passage of 
Mentative Currents from one person to another. I 
shall not attempt to indulge in any special theory on 
the subject, but shall proceed to the description of 
the facts of the case. I may add, however, that ad- 
vanced occultists inform us that portions of the hu- 
man brain, during a manifestation of strong emo- 
tional effort, or exercise of Will, resembles an incan- 
descent surface, glowing and phosphorescent. And 
that also there are seen great beams of this incan- 
descent energy streaming out from the eyes of the 
person, and reaching the mind of other persons. And 
more than this, these "beams" of energy transmit 
mental states, thoughts, etc., of the person, just as 
scientists have found that "beams of light" will carry 
waves of electricity, and have thus been able to send 

223 



224 Mental Fascination 

telegraphic, and even telephonic messages over such 
beams of light. 

MENTATIVE BEAMS OF ENERGY. 

One who has mastered the Fascination of the Eye, 
is able to convey most readily to others the Menta- 
tive Currents which tend to produce similar mental 
states by Mentative Induction, as explained elsewhere 
in this book, and in "Mental Magic." If you will but 
remember the above illustration of the "beam of 
light" along which the electric and magnetic currents 
travel, and will form a Mental Picture of these Men- 
tative Beams from the Eye, you will understand the 
process much better, and you will at the same time 
tend to give to your own Mentative beams a substan- 
tial reality, along the lines of Visualization. That is, 
when you wish to use these Mentative Beams, you 
should imagine them as actually existing in full force 
and reality — this will tend to cause to give them a 
material reality, and thus render them a highly effi- 
cient medium for the passage of your Mentative Cur- 
rents. 

THE FASCINATING GAZE. 

And now, right here is the best place to instruct you 
in the proper use of the eye in what has been called 
"The Magnetic Gaze," but which would be more prop- 
erly styled the "Fascinating Gaze." There has been 



The Fascination of the Eye 225 

much nonsense written on this subject, and in some 
of my own earlier writings I gave directions along 
these lines which I am now able to replace with more 
approved methods, and later discoveries coming from 
the study and experimentation of myself and others 
along these lines. I am willing to improve upon my 
own methods as well as upon those of others — I have 
no false pride upon this subject, and if tomorrow I 
find that I can improve upon my work of today, I 
will do so and give my students the benefit of the 
change, instead of stubbornly "sticking to it," just 
because I had once stated a theory, fact, or result. 
There is no standing still in scientific work — he who 
stands still really goes backward. 

THE FORMER METHOD. 

The former instructions regarding the "Magnetic 
Gaze" told the student to concentrate his gaze "at the 
root of the nose" of the other person, that is, right 
between his two eyes. Now this was all very well, 
but there is a far better plan. This focusing the gaze 
between the eyes of the other person, really results in 
"crossing" your gaze, and thus robbing it of a portion 
of the direct electro-magnetic power that it possesses. 
You may prove this by holding up a pencil before 
your eyes, and focusing your eyes upon it as you draw 
it nearer and nearer to your eyes. The nearer you get 
to the pencil, or to the other person, the more will your 



226 Mental Fascination 

gaze be "crossed" and the effect impaired. A gaze 
from a pair of "crossed eyes" is not nearly so Fasci- 
nating as one from a pair of straight eyes, giving out 
a direct, forceful impression. 



THE NEW METHOD. 

The new "Fascinating Gaze" is performed as fol- 
lows: You do not focus your gaze at a point between 
the two eyes of the other person, but, instead, you 
gaze directly and straightly into his two eyes with 
your two eyes. You will find this difficult, and tiring, 
if you perform it in the ordinary way — and herein 
lies the "secret." Instead of focusing your eyes upon 
his, as if you really wished to see the color of his eyes, 
you must so focus your eyes that you are really gazing 
through him, as if he were transparent and you wished 
to see something beyond him. A little practice before 
a mirror will show you what I mean better than I can 
explain it to you in words. Practice at "gazing 
through" objects will aid you in acquiring this gaze. 
Try for instance focusing your eyes upon the wall op- 
posite you as you raise your eyes from this page; Then 
as you look at the wall, slowly pass your hand before 
your eyes at a distance of about two feet, but don't 
change your focus — don't see the hand plainly, but 
keep your gaze focused on the wall, as if you could 
see it through the hand. 



The Fascination of the Eye 227 

HOW TO PRACTICE. 

This gaze must not consist of a blank, vacant, stu- 
pid state, but must be intense and earnest. Practice 
on objects as above stated, and with your mirror, will 
aid you in perfecting the gaze. It will help you if you 
have some friend with whom you can practice it. 

THE EFFECT UPON OTHERS. 

The other person will not be aware that you are not 
"seeing" him, and are "gazing through" him — to him 
it will appear that you are giving him a very deep, in- 
tense, steady, earnest glance. He will see your pupils 
dilate, as they always do when looking at a distant 
object, and your expression will be one of calm, se- 
rene power. 

IT DOES NOT TIRE THE EYES. 

And another important point about this gaze is that 
you may maintain it a long time without tiring the 
eyes, and without the eyes watering or blinking. You 
may out-stare another person, or animal, in this way, 
without fatigue, while the other's eyes grow tired and 
weak. So much is this true that the results of my 
own investigation of the subject have convinced me 
that the animals who manifest the Fascinating Gaze 
(as mentioned in a previous chapter) really focus 
their eyes beyond the object in just this way. If ever 



228 Mental Fascination 

you get a chance to observe an animal fascinating an- 
other, you will see that I am right in this theory. 

THE SCIENTIFIC EXPLANATION. 

This "gazing through" the other person is accom- 
plished by a certain "accommodation" of the eye, as 
oculists and opticians call it, and while you are per- 
forming it you cannot examine distinctly, or "see" 
distinctly the eyes of the other person, because your 
focus is different. To show you why you are able to 
maintain this gaze such a long time without tiring 
your eyes, I would remind you of the ease with which 
you may maintain the expression of being "wrapped 
in thought," "day-dreaming," "lost in a brown study," 
"just thinking about things," etc., with which you all 
are familiar. In such a mental state you are able to 
"gaze into space" for a long time without the slight- 
est fatigue, while a few seconds' focusing your eyes 
upon a near-by object will tire them very much in- 
deed. And then, again, you know how long you are 
able to gaze at an object far out at sea, or far across 
the desert, or far down or across the mountain, with- 
out tiring your eyes. The whole secret is that short- 
range focusing upon an object tires the eyes much 
more than does "long-range" gazing into space. This 
being the case, it will tire you far less "seeing 
through" a person, than gazing at him and "seeing" 
him at short range. 



The Fascination of the Eye 229 

RULES FOR PRACTICE. 

In practicing the maintaining of the gaze for a long 
time, I would advise against tiring the eyes by gazing 
at short-range objects. Better practice at gazing at 
distant objects until you are able to maintain the gaze 
a long time, as you will be able to do after a little 
practice. In fact, I advise you to practice the "gazing 
into space," because proficiency in that will enable you 
to perfect the Fascinating Gaze. After you have prac- 
ticed this "gazing through" method a bit, you will be 
able to look at an object a couple of feet away, and 
gaze right through it — that is, you will not consciously 
"see" it objectively, although apparently staring hard 
at it. 

MAKE HASTE SLOWLY. 

Avoid all exercises tiring to the eyes, and proceed 
slowly, working from trifling successes to more impor- 
tant ones. You will be surprised how a little intelli- 
gent practice along these lines will give you a pene- 
trating glance, firm, earnest, and full of "magnetism" 
and Fascination, without the slightest sense of strain, 
fatigue or effort. You have long wished for such an 
expression — here it is for you. 



CHAPTER XX. 

THE USE OF THE MENTATIVE INSTRU- 
MENTS. 

In the use of the Eyes for the purpose of conveying 
Mentative Currents, you should always remember 
that the FEELING is the real power behind these 
currents of Force, and that the Brain is the Dynamo 
from which the currents originate. The Brain, you 
know, is the great Transformer, or Converter of the 
Mentative Energy, and acts just as does a Dynamo in 
the direction of sending forth great waves of Force. 
Consequently, if you wish to send out Mentative Cur- 
rents for the purpose of inducing feeling in others, 
you must first have FEELING generated in your Men- 
tal Dynamo. 

VALUABLE EXERCISES. 

It will be well for two people to practice the Eye 
Exercises together, but in the absence of a friend in 
whom you have confidence, you may obtain excellent 
results by practicing before your friendly mirror. In 
either case, you must first arouse in your mind the 

230 



Use of Mentative Instruments 231 

Feeling that you wish to express in Mentative Cur- 
rents. Put your Feeling into your glance, and it will 
be felt. 

Exercise i. Look into the eyes of your friend (or 
your own in the mirror) and then say mentally "I am 
Stronger than you." Throw into your glance as much 
of the feeling of Strength as you can. 

Exercise 2. Say mentally, "I am more Positive 
than you — I am outgazing you," throwing as much 
positivity as possible into your gaze, the same being 
inspired, of course, by your Feeling. 

Exercise 3. Say, and feel, "You are afraid of me 
— I am making you feel my Strength," throwing the 
feeling into your gaze. 

ACTUAL PRACTICE. 

After you have acquired the faculty of making your 
strength felt by the above exercises you may use same 
uppn other people when the occasion renders it ad- 
visable. If you are addressed by some person whom 
you think is trying to master you mentatively, or 
whose strong influence you wish to ward off, you may 
use the above method on him. As a rule the person 
who is doing the talking has a slight advantage over 
the listener, all else being equal. The speaker is the 
more positive because he is expressing more Energy. 
But you may counteract this, if you are the listener, 
by simply sending him a glance, accompanied by the 



232 Mental Fascination 

Feeling of '7 scatter your Force into bits — you cannot 
affect ME!" 

POINTS OF PRACTICE. 

In resisting an attack of this sort, keep your mouth 
closed, with the teeth touching, for this "bite" denotes 
Strength and Firmness, and brings into play the parts 
of the brain manifesting these qualities, and thus 
charges your Mentative Currents with these feelings. 
At the same time gaze firmly and steadily into the eyes 
of the other, using the Fascinating Gaze. I would 
bid you remember my remarks in "Mental Magic" 
about the person standing having the advantage of the 
one sitting. Avoid the sitting position when the other 
person is standing — do not give him this advantage, 
but take it yourself if you can. 

MENTAL COMMANDS AND REFUSALS. 

In speaking to persons and requesting them to do 
something, you should accompany the verbal request 
by a Mental Command. For instance, if you say "You 
will do this for me, won't you?" (this is the Suggestive 
Form of Questioning, remember) you should accom- 
pany the question with the COMMAND (made men- 
tally) with the proper glance, "You WILL do this." 
If you are the person requested to do something that 
you do not wish to do, you should answer, "No, I do 
not care to do this," or "I do not see my way clear to 



Use of Mentative Instruments 233 

do it," or "I am unable to oblige you," etc., etc., but at 
the same time you must send the mental answer, with 
its accompanying glance, "I WILL NOT do it, and 
you cannot make me." 

CERTAIN DANGEROUS TEACHING. 

A well-known teacher along these lines several 
years ago, taught his pupils to gaze into the eyes of 
persons whom they wished to affect, at the same time 
saying mentally : "I am looking at you. I am looking 
through your eyes into your brain. My will power 
is stronger than yours. You are under my control. I 
will compel you to do what I wish. You must do what 
I say. You shall do this. Do it at once." It will read- 
ily be seen that this will generate a powerful Menta- 
tive Current, if there is a sufficiently strong Feeling — 
Will and Desire — behind it. But right here I shall 
give you an Antidote for this kind of Influence. In all 
cases where you are attacked mentally in this way 
you may dissolve the Force by a POSITIVE DE- 
NIAL. 

THE POSITIVE DENIAL. 

The POSITIVE DENIAL is the powerful Force 
that scatters into tiny bits the Force directed against 
one. It is a destructive agent, just as is the POSI- 
TIVE STATEMENT a constructive or creative one. 



234 Mental Fascination 

One who understands the scientific use of this destruc- 
tive force may undo the mentative work of others, to 
a surprising degree. Some day I shall have more to 
say regarding these two warring forces, along the 
broader lines of the entire subject of Telementation, 
but at present I shall confine myself to their use in Per- 
sonal Influence. By a Strong, Positive Denial, You 
may scatter and disintegrate any Mentative Influence 
directed against you. This formula will give you a 
general idea of it. Suppose that you are repelling a 
Statement such as given above. In that case you should 
say mentally, accompanying it with the proper glance, 
with Feeling back of it: "I DENY POSITIVELY 
your power over Me. / Deny it out of existence. I 
WILL NOT do your bidding, and I DENY your 
right and Power to command me. I DENY your 
power, and I affirm my own." 

HOW TO CULTIVATE THIS POWER. 

You may cultivate this power to use the POSITIVE 
DENIAL by practicing on an imaginary person whom 
you may suppose is trying to influence you. Imagine 
the strong, positive person before you, trying to in- 
fluence you and then start in to practice the Positive 
Denial on him, until you feel that you have beaten 
him off, and have sent him flying away in retreat. 
These imaginary mental battles will develop a great 
power of mentative resistance in you, and I advise you 



Use of Mentative Instruments 235 

strengthen yourselves along these lines, if you feel that 
you are weak. You may improve on the above exer- 
cise, by imagining that after your enemy is in full re- 
treat you follow him up and pour Statement after 
Statement into him, changing your position from a 
defender into an attacking force. 

MENTATIVE FENCING LESSONS. 

These imaginary rehearsals will do more for one 
than people think possible. They are like stage re- 
hearsals that make perfect the actors. They are the 
fencing lessons from which the swordsman gains skill, 
and strength. Practice, practice, practice makes per- 
fect in everything — in Mentative work as well as phys- 
ical. There are good psychological and occult rea- 
sons behind this method and practice, but I shall not 
enter upon that field at present — this book is intended 
to give you the "how" of the subject, rather than the 
"why." 

THE SECRET OF EFFECTIVE SPEAKING. 

In personal conversation with another you will find 
it of the greatest value to see as clearly as possible a 
mental picture, chart or map, of what you are saying 
to him. By so doing you will impress most forcibly 
upon his mind that which you wish him to see, and 
feel. In this statement is compressed the Secret of 
Effective Speaking. In the degree that YOU see and 



236 Mental Fascination 

feel the thought that you are expressing in words, will 
be the degree of Impression made upon, and Menta- 
tive Induction produced in, the other person. The se- 
cret of course lies in the Law of Visualization as ex- 
plained in "Mental Magic" and in this book. 

PSYCHOLOGICAL EXPERIMENTS. 

You may find an evidence of your increasing Men- 
tative Influence by trying the psychological experiment 
of "Willing" people to move this way or that way, by 
gazing intently at them. In this experiment it is not 
necessary for you to gaze into their eyes. Gazing at 
their back, preferably at the upper part of the neck, 
at the base of the brain, will answer. You may try 
"willing" persons to look around on the street, or in 
public places, etc. Or you may "will" that they turn 
to the right or left of you, when approaching each 
other on the street. Or, in stores you may "will" that 
a certain clerk, from out of a number, will step for- 
ward to wait upon you. These and many similar ex- 
periments have an interest to the majority cf students, 
and are accomplished with comparative ease, after suf- 
ficient practice. The whole theory and practice con- 
sists of a steady gaze, and the Mental command, and 
will, that the person will act so-and-so, together with 
the earnest expectation that they will obey the com- 
mand, and the mental picture of their doing so. That 
is all there is to it. 



Use of Mentative Instruments 237 

GENERAL ADVICE. 

f In the use of the Eye as a Mentative Instrument, re- 
member first, last, and all the time, that DESIRE and 
WILL are the phases of the Mentative Energy, and 
that in the degree that Desire is kindled, and Will is 
exerted, so will be the Power expressed by yourself, 
and impressed upon others. Read "Mental Magic" 
over a number of times, until you have fully grasped 
the underlying principles. Then re-read the present 
book, and commit its exercises and instructions to 
memory. Then practice frequently, and perfect your- 
self in the methods pointed out, until you render them 
"second nature." You will be conscious of a grad- 
ual growth and development, along the lines of Men- 
tative Power and Influence. The flame of Electro- 
Magnetic Power once lit will never die out — tend the 
flame carefully, keep the wick trimmed clean, and fill 
the lamp with oil, and it will ever burn bright and emit 
heat and light and Power. 

THE MAGNETIC TOUCH. 

The last Mentative Instrument mentioned in a pre- 
vious chapter is the Touch. There was a time, in my 
early stages of experimentation and psychological re- 
search, when I laughed at the idea of the Touch play- 
ing any real part in the work of Mental Influence. Of 
course I saw the effect of the Touch in certain phases 



238 Mental Fascination 

of psychological work, but I believed that it was all 
"merely suggestion/' but I soon learned that the 
Touch was really a most potent Instrument of Menta- 
tive Energy. I now explain it by the idea of the 
nerves being like the wires upon which the electric 
current travels. The Brain is the Dynamo, or Con- 
verter of the Energy, and while the latter travels in 
waves and currents without any wires (just as does 
the wave of the wireless telegraph) still if there is a 
wire to be had, then it follows the lines of least re- 
sistance and takes advantage of the nerve-wire. Cer- 
tain parts of the body have nerve-cells very highly de- 
veloped in them — are in fact miniature brains. In the 
cases of some persons of sensitive and trained touch, 
there exist little clusters of nerve cells at the ends of 
the fingers, that act like miniature brains. The lips 
are also highly developed in this respect, as the well 
known phenomena of "kissing" evidences. The fingers 
and hand are excellent polar mediums for conveying 
the Mentative Energy that pours down over the nerves 
from the Brain, and through which it passes to the 
other person. 

HOW TO USE THE HANDS. 

The use of the Touch of the hands as a channel for 
conveying Mentative Energy depends greatly upon 
the development of the hands by the individual. Those 
who understand this matter, develop the conductivity 



Use of Mentative Instruments 239 

of the hands by "treating" them, as follows : Think of 
your hands as excellent conductors of Mentative En- 
ergy, and imagine that you can feel the Energy pour- 
ing down the nerves of your arms, and out of your 
hands, obeying your Will, when you shake hands with 
people. You will soon develop your hands to such a 
degree that some sensitive persons will actually "feel" 
the current passing into them. Always accompany the 
passage of the current with the thought or feeling that 
you wish to induce in the other person, just as you do 
when you use the Fascinating Gaze. In fact, the Gaze 
and the hand clasp should be used together, when pos- 
sible, for by so doing you double the effect. 

THE MAGNETIC HAND-CLASP. 

When you shake hands with a person throw Mind 
and Feeling into it, and do not fall into the mechan- 
ical, lifeles method so common among people. Throw 
your Feeling down to your hand, and at the same time 
make a mental command or statement appropriate to 
the case. For instance, grasp the person's hand with 
Feeling, and interest, saying, mentally, at the same 
time: "You Like Me." Then, when you draw your 
hand away, if possible let your fingers slide over the 
palm of his hand in a caressing manner, allowing his 
first finger to pass between your thumb and forefinger, 
close up in the crotch of the thumb. Practice this 
well, until you can perform it without thinking of it— 



240 Mental Fascination 

that is, make it your natural way of shaking hands. 
You will find that this method of shaking hands will 
open up a new interest in people toward you, and in 
other ways you will discover its advantage. You 
never knew a "fascinating" person who did not have 
a good hand-clasp. It is a part of the fascinating per- 
sonality. 

OTHER USES OF THE HANDS. 

There are many persons, well grounded on the 
psychological principles underlying Mental Fascina- 
tion, who use the hands as a medium for Mentative 
Energy, without shaking hands. For instance, they 
sit near the other person and place their hands so that 
their fingers will point toward him, at the same time 
willing that the current flow through the fingers and 
toward the other. They also use their hands in con- 
versation so as to have the tips of their fingers point- 
ing toward the other. This last plan becomes highly 
effective when used with the appropriate gestures, 
for it is akin to the mesmeric "pass" of the hands. In 
this connection I would say beware of the person who 
is always trying to put his hands on you — beware of 
the "pawing over" process. Avoid it in the ordinary 
way, if possible, or else deliberately practice the POS- 
ITIVE DENIAL toward the person, holding the idea 
and mental statement that "I DENY the power of your 
magnetism — I scatter it by my Denial." 



Use of Mentative Instruments 241 

A WARNING TO WOMEN. 

In concluding this chapter, I would especially cau- 
tion young women and older ones, for that matter, 
against allowing men to be familiar with them in the 
direction of ''holding hands," or similar practices. Not 
only does this "familiarity breed contempt" but there 
are good psychological reasons why the practice is to 
be condemned. You have seen what part the hands 
play in "magnetizing" as it is called, and is it not 
clearly discernible how one may use the hands in this 
"petting," and all that sort of thing, in order to 
psychologically affect another person ? I am not speak- 
ing now of the caresses indulged in by honorable true 
lovers — for all the talk in the world would not change 
that sort of thing — but I am alluding to the indiscrimi- 
nate "pawing over" on the part of strange men that 
some young girls allow. There is a danger in this sort 
of thing, and I want you to know it. If you have 
daughters, or young female relatives, warn them 
against this thing, and tell them the reason why. 

A CAUTION TO MEN. 

And the same thing is true of the man who is always 
patting other men on the shoulder, or resting his arm 
around them, or else "taking hold of them" in a 
friendly caressing way during a conversation. Such 
men may not know the psychology of the thing, but 



242 Mental Fascination 

they have found out that this sort of "patting up" 
makes other men more impressible, and amenable to 
their influence, and so they practice it. Make them stop 
it, either by moving away, or by POSITIVE DE- 
NIAL. 

THE PROTECTIVE ARMOR. 

Now, once more, remember the power of this POS- 
ITIVE DENIAL as a disperser, and disintegrator of 
Adverse Influence. If this book taught you nothing 
else, it would still be "worth while" to you because of 
this one point of instruction. For this Positive De- 
nial is a Mentative Armor that will protect you — a 
Mentative Sword that will defend you — a Mentative 
Lightning Flash that will clear the Mental Atmosphere. 
Learn the Secret of Positive Statement, and Positive 
Denial, and you are clad in an invulnerable armor and 
are armed with the weapon of Strength — and so you 
may, like the "Warrior Bold" go "gaily to the fray." 
May the Victory be yours ! 



CHAPTER XXI. 

CONCLUDING INSTRUCTION. 

We have now reached the end of our consideration 
of the subject of "Mental Fascination," in this book. 
But you have reached only the beginning of the sub- 
ject, when you close these pages, for the real subject 
rests in the action of the principles in real life. 

THE EFFECT OF THE INSTRUCTION. 

Though you may not feel disposed to put into oper- 
ation much of the instruction given herein, yet, from 
your very acquaintance with what has been taught in 
these pages, you will be compelled to see the opera- 
tion of the principles in the everyday life around you. 
You will see them in operation on every side, now 
that you are familiar with their laws of operation. 
And you will find yourself instinctively guarding 
against its influence, just as you would guard against 
a threatened physical blow. And you will be surprised, 
and perhaps pained sometimes, at seeing people try- 
ing to influence you in this way, whom you would not 
have suspected of doing so. On the whole, you will 

243 



244 Mental Fascination 

be a much stronger man or woman by reason of the 
information herein given you. And you will have the 
advantage of knowing how to resist, defeat and dispel 
the adverse influences that may be used to influence 
you. Remember the assertion of the Positive Will, 
and the use of the Positive Denial! 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. 

There is one thing more that I wish to call your 
attention to, before closing, although, strictly speak- 
ing, it forms part of the subject of Telemental Influ- 
ence rather than that of Mental Fascination. I have 
mentioned this matter in my work on "Mental Magic," 
in my lesson on "The Science of Telementation." I 
allude to the use of Telementation for the purpose of 
Mental Fascination, which is performed by some per- 
sons who have become acquainted with the subject. 

DISTANT FASCINATION. 

The person wishing to influence another at a dis- 
tance, just as he would in the case of a Personal Inter- 
view, forms a Mental Image of the person whom he 
wishes to influence, and then proceeds just as if the 
person was actually before him, according to the 
methods mentioned in this book. I know of at least 
one teacher who advises his students to "treat" pros- 
pective customers, and others with whom they expect 
to have dealings, or relations, as follows: "Imagine 



Concluding Instruction 245 

your prospective customer, or other person, as seated 
in a chair before which you are standing. Make the 
imagined picture as strong as possible, for upon this 
depends your success. Then proceed to 'treat' the 
person just as you would if he were actually present. 
Concentrate your will upon him, and tell him just 
what you expect to tell him when you meet him. Use 
all of the arguments that you can think of, and at the 
same time hold the thought that he MUST do as you 
say. Try to imagine him as complying with your 
wishes, in every respect, for this imagining will tend 
to 'come true* when you really meet the person. This 
rule may be used, not only in the case of prospective 
customers, but also in the cases of persons whom you 
wish to influence in any way w hat so ever." 

HOW TO COUNTERACT THE INFLUENCE. 

Now, all this is very plain to the student of this 
book, and of my work on "Mental Magic," for the 
principles employed are familiar to my students. The 
result of a practice like the above would undoubtedly 
tend to clear a "mentative path" in the other person's 
mind, and make easier the effect of a subsequent in- 
terview. For the other person would be thus accus- 
tomed to the idea, thought or feeling, and the work 
of clearing away the mental underbrush would be 
done in advance. But, fortunately for us all, we have 
the Antidote for this Bane, if we have acquainted 



246 Mental Fascination 

ourselves with the underlying principles of the sub- 
ject. So important do I regard this matter of Self- 
Protection against this Telemental Influencing that 
I purpose adding to my remarks on this subject sev- 
eral paragraphs from my book on "Mental Magic," 
which, although you have already read them, should 
appear right in this place, in order to be impressed 
upon your mind in connection with what I have just 
said. I want you all to read again what I have said 
on this subject of Self-Protection. So here is the 
reproduction of a few rules to use on occasions when 
you think that someone is trying to so "treat" or "in- 
fluence you. Better study them carefully. Here they 
are: 

VALUABLE RULES. 

i. In the first place, steady your mind, and calm 
your feelings. Then pause for a moment, and say 
the words, "I AM," calmly and forcibly, at the same 
time forming a mental picture of yourself as a Centre 
of Force and Power in the Great Ocean of Mind. 
See yourself as standing alone and full of Power. 
Then mentally form a picture of your Aura, extending 
about a yard on all sides of you, in an egg-shaped 
form. See that this Aura is charged with your 
Will-Power, which is flowing outward repelling any 
adverse mental suggestions that are being sent to 
you, and causing them to fly back to the source from 
whence they came. A little practice will enable you 



Concluding Instruction 247 

to perfect this picture, which will greatly aid you in 
creating a strong Positive Aura of Will, which will 
prove to be a Magnetic Armor and shield. 

A USEFUL AFFIRMATION. 

The affirmation "I AM" is the strongest known to 
Occult Science, for it is a positive statement of Actual 
Being. You may use the following Affirmation also, 
if you please — it has helped many: "I assert my 
Individuality as a Centre of Force, Power and Being. 
Nothing can adversely affect me. My Mind is mine 
own, and I refuse admittance to unwelcome sugges- 
tions for influences. My Desires are my own, and 
refuse to admit undesirable vibrations by Induction or 
otherwise. My Will is my own, and I charge it with 
Power to beat off and repel all undesirable influences. 
I am surrounded by an Aura of Positive Will, which 
protects me absolutely." 

A USEFUL DENIAL. 

The following Denial has proved of the greatest 
value to many : "I DENY, to all or any, the power 
to Influence me against my best interests — / Am my 
ozvn Master." These words may seem simple, but if 
you will use them you will be surprised at their effi- 
cacy. You realize, of course, that it is the Mental 
State aroused by the words, that "does the work," 



248 Mental Fascination 

rather than any special virtue in the words them- 
selves. 

GUARD AGAINST "IMPULSES." 

2. Guard yourself from acting upon "impulses." 
When you feel a sudden or unaccountable "impulse" 
to do this thing, or that thing, stop and assert your 
Positive Individuality, and then drive out all outside 
influences, by repeating the Affirmations, etc., given 
above, and by creating the proper Mental Picture. 
Then, when you have recovered your balance, con- 
sider the impulse, and decide whether it is to your 
best interests, or otherwise. You will be able to see 
this clearly, by reason of your "mental house-clean- 
ing" a moment before. Then, if the impulse seems 
to be against your best interests, drive it from you, 
saying: "I drive you away from me — you do not 
belong to me — return to those who sent you," or 
other words to that effect. This may be rendered 
more forceful if you will but create a Mental Picture 
of the discarded idea flying away from you in the 
shape of a tiny thought-wave. These Mental Pictures 
aid one very materially in such matters, both in the 
sending forth of an idea, as well as in the discarding 
of one. 

THE POSITIVE AURA. 

3. Cultivate the picture and idea of a Positive 



Concluding Instruction 249 

Aura, and always think of yourself as being encased 

in such a one. See yourself as a strong Positive "I" 

a Centre of Power — encased in an Impregnable 
Sheath of Auric Force. You will thus be able to 
build up yourself into a mighty Centre. You will be 
surprised at the confused manner of people who try 
to influence you, when they come in contact with this 
Aura, and find their Suggestions and Mentative Cur- 
rents being cast back upon themselves. Such people 
find themselves "all broken up" when they meet a 
condition like this, which they do not understand for 
very few of them are practical occultists. The Mental 
Picture of yourself as a Centre of Power, surrounded 
with a Positive Aura, will, if persisted in, render you 
extremely Positive, so that your influence is sure to be 
felt by the world with which you come in contact. 

AMUSING SEQUELS. 

You will often be amused by occurrences following 
after the rejection of these "stray impulses," etc. You 
will find that if you have had an impulse to buy a cer- 
tain thing, or sell a certain thing at a sacrifice, that in 
a day or so, perhaps an hour or so, you will be ap- 
proached by some person who will advise you person- 
ally to do that same thing, the person being likely to 
be benefited by the scheme or plan. I do not mean 
that such person has necessarily tried to influence you 
by Mentative Currents, for he may not have con- 



250 Mental Fascination 

sciously done so, but nevertheless that is just what has 
happened, and his Desire or Will has caused these 
Currents to flow in your direction, and you have felt 
them. Now that your eyes have been opened to this 
fact, you will be amused and surprised to see hoW 
many corroborative proofs you will receive. But 
always assert your Individuality as a Centre of Power, 
and all will be well with you in these matters. 

THE PROTECTIVE AGENT. 

I hope that the above reproduction of the advice 
given in "Mental Magic" will do you good. And 
once more remember the power of the POSITIVE 
DENIAL as a Protective Agent. By its use you may 
disperse and scatter the Mentative Currents of others 
and surround yourself with an impregnable armor of 
Mentative Energy. And also remember this, which I 
have not said elsewhere, that the Law of Life is con- 
cerned with the Protection of the Individual, and 
gives to each the weapons with which to preserve his 
Individuality. So true is this that occultists know 
that there is the greatest difference in the use of the 
Mentative Power as an Attacking Force, and as a 
Protective Force. I will illustrate this briefly. 

PROTECTIVE INDIVIDUALITY. 

A man's Mentative Force is immensely more pow- 
erful when he uses it to Protect his Individuality than 



Concluding Instruction 251 

when he uses it to Attack the Individuality of another. 
In fact, if everyone understood the laws of Mentative 
Defence, and would avail himself of the information 
given by me under this head, there would be almost 
a total absence of Mentative Attack, for the futility 
of the same would soon be recognized. The only 
reason that the Strong Individuals are able to affect 
the weaker ones so frequently is because the other do 
not know their inner Power, and make no defense — 
in fact, the majority of people do not know of these 
laws at all ; and, if one tells them, they sneer and smile 
knowingly, tapping their foreheads to indicate that 
their informant is "just a little off." Poor sheep, and 
geese, they are so happy in their ignorance and conceit 
that it almost seems a pity to disturb them. 

nature's protective power. 

But to return to my subject. You will find that it 
will require a much less effort of Will to protect your 
Individuality than it will to attack the Individuality of 
another. You will find that the Law is on your side 
when you say, "I WONT be influenced— I DENY 
the power of another to weaken my Individuality," 
for you have then called into operation that Law of 
Nature which is always in operation, and which she 
gives to her creatures in the way of an instinctive 
protective force. So there is no occasion to be afraid— 



252 Mental Fascination 

you are immune from attacks if you will but assert 
the Force within you. 

THE GLORY OF INDIVIDUALITY. 

And now, friends, in conclusion I beg of you to re- 
member that you are Individuals — Centres of Mind, 
Power, Force and Energy, yes, Centres of LIFE, in 
the great Ocean of Being. Each of you is something 
different from any other Centre, and the Law wishes 
you to live your own life; develop your own indi- 
viduality; assert your own birthright — and in the 
measure that you so do, so will the Law be on your 
side. Do not let the snare of Personal Pride trip you 
up, and entangle you in its meshes, for it is but an 
illusion. But glory in your Pride of Individuality, 
and do not be frightened, coaxed, seduced, lured, or 
driven by the Race-Thought into the condition of "the 
worm-of-the-dust" person — do not be a "human door- 
mat" — do not be a human sheep or goose, following 
some fool leader in a stately goose-step, or the sheep- 
like "follow my leader" fashion. Remember that you 
are Men and Women — that you are Individuals for 
which the cosmic machinery has been laboring for 
ages in order to evolve. 

THE STATEMENT OF INDIVIDUALITY. 

The Statement of Individuality that "I AM HERE, 
NOW," is a mighty one. It will always be "I Am" 



Concluding Instruction 253 

with you — it will always be "Here" with you — it will 
always be "Now" with you. No matter what state your 
Individuality may reach ; no matter what point of space 
you may occupy; no matter what period of time it 
may be — it will always be true that "I AM, HERE, 
NOW !" For it will always be your "I" that is speak- 
ing — it will always be "Am" with you — everywhere 
place will be "Here" to you — all time will be "Now" 
with you. May you unfold into a perception of this 
Statement of Individuality. For when you do, you will 
have reached a mental plane where even the principles 
herein taught will seem elementary to you — for you 
will have soared above them and their operation. May 
this and other works of mine be as ladders upon which 
you may mount — and which you may then kick away 
from under your feet as no longer needed. 

Students, I thank you — and bid you Auf Wieder- 
sehen! May the Law protect you till we meet again! 

FINIS. 



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